Libraries and Tumblr: a quantitative analysis

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to determine how Tumblr is being used by libraries and special collections/archives in the USA through quantitative analysis. Design/methodology/approach – Data on library Tumblr blogs were collected at three points during a one-year period and included library type, start date, number of posts, average posts per day, type of post and other descriptive information. Findings – There is a growing library presence on the social media site Tumblr. The results shows adoption of the social media platform by multiple library types: academic, public, special collections/digital libraries, library organizations and other library/archives. Research limitations/implications – A major challenge is in the identification and discovery of all libraries on Tumblr, especially as the number of Tumblr blogs created by libraries of all types continues to grow. Practical implications – Results of this analysis should prove useful for both libraries and special collections already using Tumblr as well as those interested in starting a presence on Tumblr. The results will assist librarians in determining if this is a social media tool that is useful and valuable, as well as providing observations on best practices. Originality/value – Literature specific to Tumblr is limited. This research paper provides a starting point for more research and analysis on the presence of libraries on Tumblr.