Tumblr

I read the article "Power Tumbl'ng: A teen librarian explains why Tumblr is a great way to reach patrons" in the September 2013 School Library Journal. Robin Brenner the author of the article and the reference and teen librarian at the Public Library of Brookline, Massachusetts, found that teens were not using Facebook or Twitter to connect to the library. Social networking is fast moving and ever changing and Robin knew she had to meet her teen patrons where they had moved to. Tumbler uses a mix of art, photos, gifs, quotes and videos and this is were the teens had moved. Tumbler updates easy and young people are using it. The article also included eight tips for successful tumbling. Young people are active on Tumblr so Robin made the switch. I used the School Library Journal again. I really like how they focus on library related articles since I am trying to learn more about what it takes to be a successful librarian. After reading this article, I created a Tumblr account and chose a few blogs to follow. I like the visual appeal of this social network. I look forward to exploring what all is offered by Tumblr and plan to see how I can use this in a classroom setting or in a media center. Like Robin said in the article, you have to meet patrons where they are. I feel this is true for today's students as well. Should I use this with my Language Arts students? If so, in what capacity? Should the students lead the way?