Providing mobile interfaces

Currently, one of the most common m-library services is providing a mobile-friendly library website that makes existing content available, and usable, to patrons on mobile devices.14 A mobile-friendly website will be particularly important when, by 2020, a Pew research study predicts the primary device for internet connectivity for most people will be a mobile device.22

There are several ways for libraries to help mobile patrons access library information:14

  • Design an interface to the library website specifically for mobile access.

  • Create a mobile-friendly interface to the catalogue so that patrons on mobile devices can easily search the catalogue, place holds, etc. It is also useful to allow patrons to easily text or email themselves the call number directly off of the catalogue record.

  • Build an iPhone application that allows iPhone users with the application installed to search the library catalogue.

  • Use SMS to send alerts to patrons to tell them, for example, when a book is ready for pick-up.

  • Link to versions of databases designed for mobile access, when available.

UBC has just rolled out its new mobile library website, which includes the ability to search the catalogue. For other examples of the services listed above, check out the m-libraries wiki.

Libraries can choose to develop their mobile services in-house or they can work with vendors that provide library software systems. For example, for mobile-friendly catalogues, Innovative Interfaces offers AirPac, and SirsiDynix offers PocketCirc.14 Libraries may also want to consider developing or using open source software.

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