As Pinterest has exploded on the scene of social media, public libraries have learned to effectively use this program for gaining patron interest in their missions. Here are 10 popular ways public libraries use this exciting tool.

1. New books. Don't judge a book by its cover? By displaying book covers of the latest novels, patrons can decide if they would like to read an upcoming book by clicking on the book's cover for more information. Clicking on the cover also often brings patrons to the library's card catalog where they can directly checkout the book.

2. Judge a book by its cover. Some libraries prefer to judge a book by its cover-especially if it has great cover art. Northbrook Public Library in Illinois has a board dedicated to such purposes.

3. Promote library activities. Whether you are hosting an author visit or planning a library carnival, Pinterest is a great way to showcase your library's events.

4. Hobbies. Create a What's for Dinner board displaying cookbooks, or let patrons know what garden books the library offers. Other boards libraries create include crafts, sports, and wedding planning. There are even boards with crafts made from old books.

5. Great online resources. Create a board like Oelwein Library in Iowa letting patrons know of available online resources such as Mango languages, Ebsco, and goodreads.com.

6. Outreach. Take pictures of the library's presence at local fairs and expos. Checkout the outreach board for Hernando Library, located in Brooksville, FL.

7. Library humor. Let patrons know you have a sense of humor. A popular library pin: "Yes, we have that book with the green cover by that famous guy!"

8. Reading lists. Create reading lists for mysteries, graphic novels, beach reads, biographies, banned or challenged books, authors from your state, book to film adaptations, homeschooling, family read-alouds, or beginning readers.

9. Library displays. Get inspired by library displays from other libraries and also share your own ideas for displays.

10. Award winners. Create a board of award-winning books, such as Pulitzer Prize winners, National Book Circle Award winners, or even ALA Notable Books.