Abstract
While the burgeoning trend in online social networks has gained much attention from the media, few studies in library science have yet to address the topic in depth. This article reports on a survey of 126 academic librarians concerning their perspectives toward Facebook.com, an online network for students. Findings suggest that librarians are overwhelmingly aware of the “Facebook phenomenon.” Those who are most enthusiastic about the potential of online social networking suggested ideas for using Facebook to promote library services and events. Few individuals reported problems or distractions as a result of patrons accessing Facebook in the library. When problems have arisen, strict regulation of access to the site seems unfavorable. While some librarians were excited about the possibilities of Facebook, the majority surveyed appeared to consider Facebook outside the purview of professional librarianship.
Highlights
While the burgeoning trend in online social networks has gained much attention from the media, few studies in library science have yet to address the topic in depth
The hubbub seemed to center around one particular Web site
A campus reporter broke the exciting news to the Jacksonville State University (JSU) community that “after months of waiting and requests from across the country, it’s here
Summary
When Facebook made its debut at JSU, it had become the “ninth most highly trafficked Web site in the U.S.”4 One source estimated that 85 percent of college students whose institutions are registered in Facebook’s directory have created personal profiles on the site.[5] Membership for the university network requires a university e-mail address, and an institution cannot be registered in the directory unless a significant number of students request that the school be added. Some librarians scoff at this new trend, viewing the site primarily as just another dating service Others have created their own Facebook accounts just to see how it works, to connect with students, and to keep up with the latest Internet fad.[7] n Study rationale
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