Building a better library blog can be a challenge. However it can be done. In this first of four parts, I will share with you some ideas on how to make that happen.

You can build a better library blog by encouraging a sense of community. There are countless ways that it can be done. Here are some of the better ones.

1. Use a blogging platform and layout that encourages comments and interactivity. Wordpress is a great idea, however you can also use typepad or your own program.

2. Consider turning your web page into a blog format and accepting comments. This can be great if done right. However, if you do this then you will want to make sure that someone at your library is assigned to monitor the comments in order to avoid inappropriate ones.

3. Encourage comments by asking open ended questions.

4. Post polls and ask people to help you out by responded to brief survey questions.

5. Consider adding a wiki, ning community or other forum to your blog. This can be great because it provides your library blog readers with ways of interacting with others.

What other ideas do you have about how to build a better library blog by encouraging communication.