Get fresh!

Don't you sometimes feel that library folks are all talking about the same things over and over?  I feel that even after I read ten blogs, I've actually only read one or two worth noting.  With the new list of Ohio libraries on Facebook and Twitter (yes, OPLIN is following all of them, and so can you) I'm seeing the same tweets, the same posts, the same blogs a hundred times a day.

I'm not saying the posts are WRONG, I'm just saying that customers want something more than, "Hey, look!  XYZ Library has a program going on!"  Customers want a personal conversation with you.

Say something personal.  Say things about individual staff members.  Post suggestions from your suggestion box and your responses (of course).  Give facts about your library.

"Did you know Miss Jenni has a degree in Russian history?"  Post her picture - she's the one in the fur hat.

"You will never believe what we found in the book drop today!"

"A patron thinks the bike rack should be placed closer to the building.  Great idea!  We're moving it this afternoon."

"If you ask Jane in the Reference Department what her favorite book is, you may be surprised!"

"Want a workout?  Your library has 3.22 miles of bookshelves! Come and browse them all."

"Can you guess which book was checked out the most last year?"

If you're having difficulty being "fresh"...if the same people are having the same conversations, get out of the pattern!

• Try a new voice.  Give another staff member the time to tweet for a while. 
• Allow a guest post on your blog.
• Be willing to talk about something new...new services, new programs, throw out new ideas and get patron feedback.

Your followers know you are awesome.  Toot your own horn, but also let others talk...let others tell of their experiences with you.  Grow, don't stagnate!

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