Mastering Mobile through Social Media: Creating Engaging Content on Instagram and Snapchat

Platforms such as Snapchat and Instagram are communication staples for many key library demographic audiences, particularly those between thirteen and thirty-four years old. In this issue of Library Technology Reports, Paige Alfonzo explores the ways libraries can maximize their presence on Instagram and/or Snapchat, paying special attention to the transitory world of Instagram and Snapchat Stories. She starts with a mini-case study based on interviews she conducted with 11 standout library professionals who are using the aforementioned platforms in very effective ways. She then builds upon these ideas to bring you a series of practical ideas, tools, and resources you can implement to enhance your library’s content on these primarily mobile applications.

This report can be used by individuals at any stage of the marketing process from considering if your library is ready for Snapchat and/or Instagram to finding new ways to craft fresh content on your established account(s). The intention of this report is to provide you with considerations for platform management and offer new ideas and concepts to get your creative juices flowing.

This report

• Introduces Snapchat and Instagram and offers tools and content recommendations that you can utilize to improve your marketing;
• Provides real-world examples, recommendations, and methods for engaging patrons;
• Shares tips you can employ to ensure your accounts are set up for success, including providing resources for policy creation and collaboration; and
• Offers a list of applications that you can use to boost your content and a list of suggested events you can add to your content calendar.