Skokie has launched a new Facebook page to promote local shopping throughout the village. The Shop Local Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ShopLocalSkokie promotes businesses in various retail areas around Skokie.

Ann Tennes, Skokie’s director of marketing and communications, said the village has wanted to use social media more as a promotional and informational tool. Such an initiative was part of a five-year marketing plan, she said. “We thought launching a Facebook page centered on economic development was a good start,” Tennes said.

Another advantage of the new Facebook page is that it allows Skokie to market economic development beyond just downtown.