Legal Research

Mobile and Libraries

By admin

A must-read article…
(Thanks Gerry McK)

Making the case for a fully mobile library web site: from floor maps to the catalog

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the current state of worldwide mobile usage; mobile technologies; libraries’ use of mobile technologies including a review of library mobile catalog options, both vendor-supplied and in-house created; perspectives from current library leaders and innovators on the importance of incorporating the libraries’ resources into the mobile environment; and future directions for mobile library services.

Conclusion

In the near future, mobile versions of a library’s web site will be as common and as expected as the library’s current desktop site is today. Developing your library’s mobile web site should start by crafting a successful proposal that effectively communicates the importance of mobile web accessibility to administrators, faculty, and staff within your library. “Ubiquitous handheld access is more prominent thanks to digital lifestyle devices such as smart phones and iPods, yet libraries still focus on digital content for typical desktop PCs” (McDonald and Thomas, 2006, p. 5).

Gathering the data that backs up the growing assumption that mobile phones are omnipresent in your community or on your campus will help build a more convincing argument. Exploring examples of mobile library sites will provide timely ideas and inspiration for your library mobile site. In addition, understanding your particular user base and how they make use of mobile devices, whether they are primarily members of Generation Y or members of another demographic, will help design a site that is heavily trafficked by your users. There will be many opportunities for offering library services in a mobile environment in the near future. Making a strong argument for which of these services works best for your library will keep your library relevant and meaningful in a time ofconstant technological change.

Cite:

Laurie Bridges, Hannah Gascho Rempel, and Kimberly Griggs. “Making the case for a fully mobile library web site: from floor maps to the catalog.” Reference Services Review 38.2 (2010): 309-20.

Link To Full PDF Article Available Via http://ir.library.oregonstate.edu/jspui/bitstream/1957/16437/1/Bridges.MakingCaseFullyMobileLibrary.pdf (14 page PDF)

Stephen

Full post as published by Stephen's Lighthouse on August 11, 2010 (boomark / email).