Why you should follow the library on Instagram

Simplified: The folks running Siouxland Libraries' social media accounts are [insert whatever the cool new word is for "cool"]. They've got rizz? Having a brat summer? In their Instagram era? Whatever you call it, it's entertaining.

Why it matters

• The library has been active on social media for some time, but the organization's Instagram page has seen hundreds more followers (about a 30% increase) since Library Associate Hannah Voundry took over the page in December. A big part of that was a viral video from the solar eclipse earlier this year.
• One of the main goals is just to show the public that libraries are still relevant, Voundry said, that they're places where you can find fun, get popular books (even your BookTok reading list) and use a wide variety of free resources.
• Voundry attributes part of the library's successes on social media to the fact that they're not there to sell anything. Instead, the goal of posts is to have fun and give people a taste of what local libraries have to offer – something public libraries across the country have found success doing on social media.

"Social media is storytelling, and we love stories," said Emily Harris, digital services librarian.

What makes for good posts?

It's all about knowing what's popular in the moment. Voundry describes herself as "extremely online," in that she personally stays up-to-date on trends.

• For example, she's already thinking about what type of content would play well during the upcoming Paris Olympics.

The other secret is to keep it real. It doesn't matter if not everyone can nail the choreography to Chappell Roan's "H-O-T-T-O-G-O."

"We can find you a good book, but we can't dance," Harris said.

How can I find these funny videos and posts?

They're on the Siouxland Libraries Instagram page. The library is also active on Facebook and YouTube.