استثمار شبكات التواصل الاجتماعي بالمكتبات الأكاديمية : نظرة تحليلية لتجربة المكتبة الرئيسية بجامعة السلطان قابوس

Abstract EN

The aim of this study is to identify the experience of the Main Library of Sultan Qaboos University in utilizing social medianetworks such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram in marketing and promoting its services; providing knowledge to users; and interacting with comments and queries of the university community.

The case study method was found suitable for this reseaarch and data collected through a review list and interviews with members of social network committee at the library.

Findings indicate that the library uses social media networks to deliver different services.

In the forefront of these are instructions for using library services with 49.5%, followed by community services with 41.3%.

The library account in YouTube received 9726 views.

While 4028 visitors liked the Instagram photos, and 3056 visited the University Facebook page.

The study also revealed that users like almost 92% of library messages delivered on social media networks.

Most of the comments and responses came from users of Twitter (94.1%), Instagram (52.8%) and Facebook (28.6%).

In light of these findings, the study recommends the following: 1- The main library should allocate more investments to its accounts at various social media networking platformsN 2- The Library should utilize social media networks in contacting the university community regarding selection of library materials.

3- The library should pay more attention to Twitter because of its extensive use by university community.