Volusia Library's Facebook Page

http://www.facebook.com/volusialibrary

I decided to check out the Facebook page for Volusia County, the county I used to live in. While other library Facebook pages are minimal or sparse, the Volusia County’s Facebook page obviously has had some time and work put into it. It almost acts as its own website.

I like how at the very top of the page, they have links to a variety of commonly used resources such as the catalog, eBooks, and databases. You can even search the catalog directly from the Facebook webpage which is very handy. On the main page they also have all of the upcoming programs at all the library, complete with pictures so you can easily see what kind of programs will be offered without reading each blurb. Each of these events was also created as a specific Facebook event that you can RSVP to, if necessary. Volusia County has also created separate custom pages for downloads, eResources, teens, and locations. They make active use of the Facebook wall – as well – and frequently post about upcoming events and library news.

While the Facebook page is very intricate, I think at times it can be too overwhelming. For instance, on every page they have a “page curl” in the right-hand corner that encourages you to take their survey. While this is a good way to draw attention to their survey, it is on every single page and can get quite annoying. Additionally, once you take the survey (or choose not to), there is no way to remove that page curl effect.

Another frustration I have with the Facebook page is that while it lists all of the library’s upcoming events, you can not easily see which library they pertain to. The Volusia County is very big and it may not be that easy for someone who lives in Debary to drive 45 minutes to attend an event at the Daytona branch. I have to read the event listing in full before I can tell which library it is for.

All things considered, I think the Volusia County Facebook page is very well done. It was created by someone who is very knowledgeable about web-design and social media. I’m glad to see the county investing resources into their Facebook page instead of just having the bare minimum, like some other library pages do. It serves as an excellent example of a quality Facebook page that other libraries could strive towards.