Contagious: Why Things Catch On by Jonah Berger was selected as the title for “Libraries Read: 1 Book”. Why do people talk about certain products and ideas more than others? Why are some stories and rumors more infectious? What makes things popular? And what makes online content go viral? These are some of the questions addressed in the book.
MCLS invited library staff across Indiana and Michigan to place votes on one of four titles to select one book that we will all read and discuss together for professional development. Jonah Berger’s book captured the most votes. In Contagious, he reveals the secret science behind word-of-mouth and social transmission. He explains how six basic principles drive all sorts of things to become contagious, from consumer products and policy initiatives to workplace rumors and YouTube videos. Contagious combines groundbreaking research with powerful stories.
MCLS encouraged library staff to read the book throughout April and May. Related free events took place through the summer. According to Randy Dykhuis, MCLS Executive Director, “by reading one book together, we aim to create deeper connections among libraries that span geographic and other boundaries.”
Every Thursday in June at 2 pm librarians joined together for a live Twitter chat at the #LibRead1bk hashtag.
If you are new to Twitter or have never participated in a live Twitter chat before, here are some tips:
or register for a Twitter account if you don’t already have one. or Tweetchat.com or other chat tool of your choice., you must click the sign in button. It will then want to link your Twitter account to their website. Click authorize app.Discussions of the book were held on the Libraries Read: 1 Book Facebook event page.
The Lynda.com class Viral Marketing: Crafting Shareable Content by Jonah Berger is free for any librarian with a subscription to Lynda.com. If you are an Indiana librarian you may access the course through the Indiana State Library’s subscription (pre-approved for 1 LEU.) If you are a Michigan librarian without access to Lynda.com, free trial access has ended with the conclusion of this program.
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