AAHSL Twitter Use From 2007 to 2014: An Exploratory Analysis

Area of Science:

• Library and Information Science
• Health Communication
• Social Media Studies

Background:

• Academic health sciences libraries utilize social media platforms like Twitter for communication and marketing.
• The Association of Academic Health Sciences Libraries (AAHSL) comprises many institutions with active Twitter accounts.
• There is a need to understand how these libraries leverage Twitter to connect with their audiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the current usage patterns of Twitter by AAHSL member libraries.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of library Twitter communication strategies.
• To develop and refine best practices for health sciences libraries using Twitter.

Main Methods:

• An observational study design was employed.
• Data collection focused on the Twitter activities of AAHSL member libraries.
• Analysis considered established social media best practices.

Main Results:

• Analysis of Twitter usage patterns within AAHSL libraries.
• Assessment of communication strategies in the context of social media best practices.
• Identification of areas for improvement in library Twitter engagement.

Conclusions:

• Libraries can enhance their communication and marketing efforts through strategic Twitter use.
• Adherence to social media best practices is crucial for effective library engagement.
• This research provides a foundation for optimizing Twitter account management in health sciences libraries.