In my search for art libraries using web 2.0 technologies, I came across an art library/gallery/recital hall housed in an early 20th century mansion, perched on a hill surrounded by a park–I’d say it’s an art librarian’s dream. What’s more is the fact that this little gem is a branch of a public library! So rare for a public library to have a separate branch devoted to the arts, but that is the case for the Brand Library & Art Center, the art and music section of the Glendale Public Library, Glendale, California.

Prominently displayed on the library’s website is a link to their Facebook page (Note: You must login to see this page. If you are not a member of Facebook, check out the screenshot above). The Library invites patrons to become a fan of the Brand Library & Art Center in order to receive announcements and invitations to events, but they clearly state that they will continue to share these notifications on the library’s website and email listserv. This is a great way for the library to attract a younger audience, but still provide information to those not on Facebook. One drawback is that those subscribed to the email list and Facebook will receive duplicate information, but it does act as a good reminder.

The content on the Facebook wall is similar to that of the Sloan Art Library: new items and highlights from the collection, exhibition announcements, art related news, and updates on library renovations and closures. The info page contains the address, phone number, web address, email contact, and hours of operation; the photo section features photographs primarily of exhibition openings; the events page lists all past and upcoming events and allows the patron to RSVP; and the notes page features lengthier updates on collection development. It is a fabulous resource for Brand Library patrons as well as librarians and curators from anywhere who are interested in new publications or exhibitions. It’s no wonder there are 527 Facebook fans!

As I said before, the Facebook layout and colors cannot be altered and there is little room for customization. But I don’t think those capabilities are necessary for the Brand Library. They utilize all features completely, and as a visitor, I do not feel that the Facebook page is lacking in content or quality. I’ve never been to the Brand Library, or Glendale, California for that matter, but I’m impressed by their social networking abilities and I’m tempted to become a fan on Facebook.