I believe that libraries should use Facebook as a means of proactively reaching out to potential patrons, especially in the academic setting. Students tend to rely on Facebook as a source of news. They look to it for updates on the lives of their friends and family, but also they get notifications about upcoming performances, events and rallys. It is a mecca for current information that is relevant to their lives.
Although students may be somewhat dependent on Facebook, that does not necessarily mean they will know where to find the page of their library. Some may not know if it would be appropriate for them to add the library to their likes or as a friend. In this case, reaching out to students and communicating how the page can be useful to them is a great service.
I think it is important to also add a little note along with the friend request. This note could explain that the Facebook profile is a great way to receive news updates from the library and to ask questions of the librarians.
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