With the prevalence of social media as both a communication and a marketing tool, local libraries and schools have taken advantage of this resource. While other areas may be using social media as an interactive tool, communities in the Mid-Hudson Valley are most concerned with spreading information and encouraging in-person connection.

“We find that through likes and shares, we are often able to promote our programs and services to a wider audience, including those who might not frequently use the Library. While we don’t rely solely on social media to promote the Library, we find that it does help,” said Lindsay Jankovitz, assistant director of the Marlboro Free Library.

The Highland Public Library as well as the Sarah Hull Hallock Free Library in Milton also use their social media accounts, mainly Facebook and Instagram, to help them alert their communities of new books, programs, and events at their libraries.

Lois Heiser Skelly, director of the Sarah Hull Hallock Free Library, has found that most people hear about their children’s programs through Facebook and that it has been effective in bringing younger people into the library.

Local school districts, namely the Highland, Marlboro, and Wallkill school districts, are also utilizing their Facebook and Instagram accounts to help them connect with their communities and provide another line of communication.

Superintendent of the Marlboro Central School District, Micheal Rydell, stated that his district makes sure to send out updates and school information online as part of its comprehensive communication protocol.

The other school districts in the area also expressed the value of communication with their communities.

“I am a big believer in communication, whether that’s in-person or online,” said Kevin Castle, Superintendent of the Wallkill Central School District, “We use our social media accounts, district messaging system, and newsletters to stay in touch.”

Both libraries and schools have found that social media is a great tool to spread information, but that in-person connection is the most important.
“In-person connection is number 1 for us, I always make sure to be at events and interacting with the community,” said Castle, “it’s important for families to trust and feel comfortable with their child’s school administration.”

Julie Kelsall-Dempsey, executive director of the Highland Public Library, stated that social programs and events, such as video gaming tournaments and art classes, are what tend to bring in more people.

While online tools have been helpful, local school and library administrations emphasize building in-person community connections.