Connections, social networking and library service

Stephen Abram gave a great talk to the U of A School of Library and Information Science on October 28. He is out and about in the west talking about SLA - the Special Libraries Association. Every time I see Stephen speak, I am re-energized about librarianship. SLA is doing some very cool things to enhance the role of librarians and all library workers in the steadily emerging information economy that is our current world.

Stephens talk included discussions on connecting with our clients and potential clients using social software. One tool I use, although not consistently enough, is LinkedIn. Doug Cornelius, who blogs at KM Space, has a post today about new features that have been added to this tool. You can see my public profile on LinkedIn to get an idea what this tool is all about.

Stephen reminded me that the Field Libraries serve people from all generations and technological literacy as well as personal preference for connecting to friends and colleagues. The librarians at Field will happily connect with you however you choose, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, our Library INFO phone line, email, SMS Messenger on my Blackberry, cell phone, work phone, and of course in person.