Instagram 101 for Libraries

Want to be where your users are? Instagram is huge and still growing:

• 1 billion monthly users
• 71% of Instagram users are ages 18-35
• 35% of all online US adults use Instagram

1. Download the app and set up an account.
2. Choose a username that matches your handle on Twitter, Pinterest or other social spaces. Consider using the same profile photo, too. Consistency counts when your patrons are trying to find you online. (Need to make a change later? Here's how.)
3. When writing your bio, include your organization's full name; be specific, and avoid acronyms. Also add your municipality/county and state.
4. Add your organization's URL in the website section of your bio.
5. Who, What, Where & Why: DON'T stop at "check us out!" or "welcome to our photos!" DO include relevant hashtags and maybe an emoji or two. Including a brief version of your mission in your Instagram bio will help users understand what your library is all about.

1. Great photos! Here are 10 easy to use tips for taking ideal pictures. Play around with filters and borders. That's half the fun.
   
2. Behind the scenes at your library.
3. Programs & events for all ages.
4. Celebrations: within your community, of your staff & their accomplishments.
5. Throwbacks: vintage items & photos - tag them #TBT or #ThrowbackThursday
6. Regram! Share community members' pics using the Repost app.
7. Check out this Library Instagram Ideas Pinterest board for more inspiration!

• Instagram: iOS | Android
• Repost: iOS | Android
• Schedule posts from your desktop: Later
• Free Analytics Tools
• Helpful guidance & advice: Later's blog & Library Paparazzi (webinar & slides) from LibraryLinkNJ
• Good hashtags to follow: #librariesofinstagram, #marbledmonday, #throwbackthursday, #bookfacefriday, #librarylove, #letmelibrarianthatforyou, #librarylife

Created by Sophie Brookover, Program Coordinator & Social Media Manager

Website: librarylinknj.org
Location: 44 Stelton Road, Piscataway Township, NJ, United States
Phone: 732.752.7720
Facebook: facebook.com/librarylinknj
Twitter: @librarylinknj

This Smore is created under an Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International Creative Commons license.