It might be a bit much for us all at the moment, what with many schools having bans on mobile phones, but this innovative presentation is worth keeping in mind. Teacher librarians have always been wonderful at managing change, so is this our next frontier?

Go Mobile: Top 5 Mobile Services for Libraries ALA2009

Thank you to Lisa Carlucci (@lisacarlucci) and Joe Murphy (@libraryfuture) for the poster and this abstract:

Today’s patrons expect information in the palm of their hand. Using cell phones as their primary interface, patrons expect libraries to seamlessly meet their information needs on the go. This poster introduces and describes the leading methods innovative libraries will use to deliver services through mobile devices. Text Message Reference: Answer reference questions sent by patrons on their cell phones by SMS. Electronic Collections: Promote and enhance access to online library collections via mobile devices, and consider best practices for developing new digital projects with mobile interfaces. Access Services: Provide interactive account information and support access services functions for patrons anywhere, anytime, on their cell phones. Online Social Networks: Provide services and resources to build community and develop a sustainable home for your library on popular mobile social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Mobile Applications: Create software that serves as a customizable mobile interface to the library for patrons to download and access on their iPhones and other smart phones. Together, these top five methods promote the relevance of traditional services in the modern environment and advance the ability of librarians to think forwardly about new mobile services. “Think Forward, Think Mobile.”

Some schools are rethinking their ban on mobile phones; allowing them in schools but not allowing students to make or receive phone calls. This paves the way for school libraries to consider using these technologies.

Thanks to Lisa and Joe for the excellent presentation; certainly food for thought.