Answer boards and social searching - Libraries definitely can play a role

Librarians as information specialists are in the most advantageous position to provide concise and accurate answers to questions posted on answers boards, while at the same time raising the profile of librarians and the library profession to the public, and most especially the internet user. There is a role for any library in “slamming the boards” for this very reason. It can also be used as a professional development activity for staff, and provide the public with an insight into the value of their local public library, its staff, and the collection - but only if we participate and make it obvious that the answers provided are from librarians!