Blog Post 3: Technology Implementation Strategy

The article that I read was about how mobile devices are being used to help out the library services in this century.  Mobile phones, like iPhones and Androids, have evolved by helping doctors track a patients blood pressure through apps.  This type of technology can be helpful in the library by having an app that would allow patrons to search for books or ask questions on references for a course.  This type of information would normally be available by going to the library.  However with the evolution of technology answers can be answered faster through mobile technology.  Three key points in this article that stuck out to me were “Instant Messaging for References Services…Formal Education, Distance Learning and E-learning…QR Codes on Mobiles” (Malathay & Kantha, 2013). 

Libraries can send instant message answers to questions or provide information for books via instant messenger through a mobile device.  This will give the patrons instant access to information they need from the library without having to physically go there or log online to search.  This instant in-hand approach will draw more patrons to use the library and its sources because it will be more convenient.

For people who are taking online courses or doing a research project for school can benefit from the library mobile apps as well.  Libraries can make sure that items are modified to accommodate mobile devices for distant learning or formal education learners.  Younger individuals are now going to their phones for instant access in for an example a history class, and by having the library services modified to fit a phones screen they will make better use of the libraries resources.

Finally they have invented an easier way to fit a wide range of information into a code that has its own symbol and shape.  QR codes are a “quick responses” that contain information that can be put into a code and scanned to access the information.  The code could be to a school’s website or it could be a barcode for a book.  The mobile phones have apps that allow the user to scan the code to receive the information instantly. 

I will definitely use the QR code concept to improve how books are scanned and process in the library.  Also, I will use them to send information to parents and keep them informed of the services provided in the library.  By displaying this fresh and new way of communication, I feel it will draw more parents to the library and promote literacy at home.  I would also make use of IPads and download apps that can be used at home as well to help students read and research by using specific apps.   Bringing in technology to the library will keep the students interest because it is what they know today.  Having eBooks readily available and showing them how to access them from home is a key part in keeping the library unique and fresh.

References

Malathy, S., & Kantha, P. (2013). Desidoc Journal of Library and Information          

            Technology. Application of mobile technologies to libraries, 33(5), 361-366.