"Elders of the Internet" Media Kit for Libraries
RAILS released the Elders of the Internet video in early 2020. The purpose of the video was to give libraries an easy-to-share piece of content that promotes the value of their services. This video, featuring Nick Offerman, answers the question, "Why do people need libraries in the age of Google?"
The video launched on February 14 (Library Lovers Day). A few weeks later, the pandemic hit and most RAILS libraries were forced to close their doors. Needless to say, the timing was poor! RAILS is committed to re-launching the video and we need your help. Below is a media kit to help you promote this video. You’ll find sample messages, images, hashtags, and more. You can also download several versions of the video.
Help spread the word about the vital role all libraries play in educating, entertaining, and supporting their community of users and potential users.
RAILS on Social Media
Video
Three versions of the video are downloadable from the RAILS Vimeo account:
- Full-length version (2:23)
- Social cut 1 (:33)
- Social cut 3 (:31)
25 Ways to Promote Elders of the Internet Video
Sample Social Media Posts
- The Internet has so much to offer, but sometimes it feels overwhelming. Libraries to the rescue! Learn how libraries bring services and know-how to boost your online experience: https://youtu.be/r7IESxDtn8Y #MyLibraryIs #LibraryLovers
- You don’t have to be IN a library to use the library! Most libraries offer virtual products and services including e-books, audiobooks, and more! Learn more and connect with your local library: https://youtu.be/r7IESxDtn8Y #MyLibraryIs #LibraryLovers
- With so much happening online these days, wouldn’t it be nice if there was a place to help people connect with their community? Look no further than your local library. From virtual book clubs to online author visits, libraries are bringing us together like never before: https://youtu.be/r7IESxDtn8Y #MyLibraryIs #LibraryLovers
- When the Internet gets overwhelming, there is one place you can turn to sort things out: your local library. The library is there to help. They’ll take the time to get to know you! Get to know libraries: https://youtu.be/r7IESxDtn8Y #MyLibraryIs #LibraryLovers
- When confronted with fake news, what is your greatest defense? A library card, of course! Libraries have the resources to help you sort out fact from fiction. Get to know your local library: https://youtu.be/r7IESxDtn8Y #MyLibraryIs #LibraryLovers
- February is a time to acknowledge the ones you love. You know what we love? Libraries! Get to know more about why libraries can make your life better: https://youtu.be/r7IESxDtn8Y #MyLibraryIs #LibraryLovers
Hashtags
- #MyLibraryIs
- #LibraryLovers
- #EldersOfTheInternet
- #ILoveLibraries
- #LibraryLoversDay
Sample Social Media Images
Follow your devices's and browser's "save" procedure (right-click, control-click, etc.) to download each image you want to use.
Image A
For Facebook
For X
Alt Text
Sad pug puppy wrapped in blanket. Text reads: Don't let the Internet overwhelm you! Online exasperation is real. Your local library can help. Footer provides mylibraryis.org URL.
Image B
For Facebook
For X
Alt Text
Kitten looking at laptop screen. Text reads: Let libraries be the first defense against Fake News! Separate fact from fiction. Start your search at your local library. Footer provides mylibraryis.org URL.
Image C
For Facebook
For X
Alt Text
Pomeranian puppy looking at tablet screen. Text reads: You don't have to be IN a library to use the library! Find out what online programs & resources you could be using. Visit your local library's homepage for more information. Footer provides mylibraryis.org URL.
Sample Newsletter Article
Below is a sample article for your library’s print and e-newsletters (or use any of the talking points below to create your own article). Libraries can link to YouTube, or share the video on your own websites to direct patrons back there.
People often ask, “Why do we need libraries in the age of Google?” A single web search can return billions of results with contradictory information. In addition, there is a myriad of misinformation (e.g. “fake news”) on the internet, and valid sources of information can be hard to recognize.
Librarians are trained professionals who can help find the most trustworthy, accurate information. And librarians won’t track your search history! Interested in learning more? Just ask us! In the meantime, watch the Elders of the Internet video, featuring Nick Offerman. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7IESxDtn8Y)
Talking Points
The following talking points can be used by library staff when faced with the question: Why do I need the library when I have the internet? They can easily be adapted to fit any situation that might arise in an academic, public, school, or specialized library.
The talking points can be used separately, or in conjunction with the Elders of the Internet video starring actor Nick Offerman. For example, after each talking point, you can ask if the person you are speaking with has seen the video and invite them to view it on your website, the My Library Is… home page, or on YouTube.
Why Libraries Are Needed in the Internet Age Talking Points
- A single Google search can return billions of results with contradictory information. The first items that appear in search results are often advertisements, or sites that pay for that first position. Librarians are trained professionals who can help you find the most trustworthy, accurate information. And librarians will not track your search history to try to sell you things; they value and protect your privacy.
- It’s difficult to sort through all of the information available via the internet today. Librarians can help you navigate through this information overload. They can also teach you how to evaluate what you find on the internet and lead you to the best source of information to meet your individual needs.
- With misinformation and “fake news” so prevalent today, it’s hard to recognize valid sources of information. Librarians can help you identify the difference between “real” and “fake” news. And they can teach critical thinking and problem-solving skills that will help you find credible, unbiased sources on your own.
- Google isn’t always the best source of information and it’s certainly not the only source. Libraries offer books, e-books, journals, DVDs, online databases, and other materials not available on the internet. They can help users navigate all these resources, whether in print or online, traditional or electronic.
- Much of the specialized information library users are looking for is not available for free on the internet – if it is available at all. Through paid subscriptions, libraries provide access to countless sources of credible data, information, and knowledge—far beyond what is discoverable by any internet search engine.
- For many, the library is the primary or only source of computer and internet access. Over 1 million people In Illinois do not have internet access or only have access to a cellular data plan. Many libraries offer public Wi-Fi and help bridge the digital divide.
- Because government forms, health information, and often, employment opportunities have moved online, the library’s internet access has become a lifeline for those without access at home.
- In a world of technological change, librarians help people learn and adapt to the latest technology tools and advances. They provide training and support for first-time internet and computer users, as well as those looking to improve their skills. Libraries play a strong role in promoting internet safety for both children and adults. Librarians teach and promote safe and responsible use of the internet and social media.