THE POSITIVE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN PROMOTION LIBRARY SERVICES

ABSTRACT

This study investigated the positive impact of social media in promoting library services to the library patrons of John Harris library, University of Benin. Five objectives with corresponding five research questions were used to guide this study. Literature was reviewed on the concept of library patrons, concept of social media, types of social media, role of social media in library services, benefits derived from the use of social media for enhancing library information resources and services. Data was analysed and the recommendations provided therewith. The study concluded that although most of the librarians are active on various social media platforms, they do not necessarily use social media to render information services and place updates for John Harris Library. More so, all the respondents agreed that reference services, cataloguing services, reprographic services, are information services fully operational in John Harris Library. Based on the findings from the study, the following recommendations were made:  Implementation of training programs for librarians on how to effectively use social media platforms for providing information services. This should include best practices, social media policies, and guidelines for engagement amongst others.