I think that many libraries could benefit from creating an online presence on Facebook or MySpace. Facebook especially is widely used by college-aged patrons, who are likely to be doing research and will probably need the library at some point. By creating a presence on Facebook, libraries can provide services to these patrons in a medium they are already comfortable with.
However, I have to say that I find the idea of my local librarian sending me messages via Facebook kind of creepy. My Facebook is for my friends and family, not the general public, and the intrusion of a stranger into my private "space" feels strange to me. Libraries should remember that not all patrons will appreciate being contacted in this way.
But I have no problem whatsoever going to a group or organization profile and following it. In fact, I find that very useful, and have "liked" a few public libraries and other local businesses. I find it a much more comfortable solution...I can still post to their wall or ask questions, and I get to control how much interaction I have with them. We can communicate, but there's no unwanted or unsolicited contact. I can feel like I'm part of the library's online community without actually committing to anything.
So in conclusion, I think that libraries should use Facebook and/or MySpace if it is appropriate for their patron base. But libraries should also be careful of intruding on their patrons' online privacy. They may unwittingly put patrons off by making them uncomfortable.
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