Mobile Technology

 

Kelly Shire

 

Photos - University student using mobile phone 125588 - YouWorkForThem


By definition, “mobile technology” refers to cellular technologies, which itself is a fancy way of saying “smart phones.” For libraries in the 21st century, awareness of mobile technologies means thinking of ways that they can interact with their patrons through their smartphones. This might mean making sure that their web site and search platform is mobile friendly. I for one have been frustrated by my public library’s less than great mobile site, when I’ve tried to look up items on my phone.  

A well-designed web site should perform equally well on both a PC/laptop, and on a phone. It can be challenging for libraries to incorporate web design into their business plans, yet hopefully even without an in-house IT department, the city, county, or other supporting entity will help public libraries with web design and accessibility.

There are also other, more fun ways to use mobile technologies. In his “Dispatches” column in American Libraries magazine, David Lee King lists ways for libraries to help patrons in this area. He suggests that along with making sure that libraries provide seating with built-in charging stations and plentiful, reliable Wi-Fi. I really like his idea of having “Instagrammable” areas in the library, where young people and others who use the social media app can take and share photos. King goes even further, sharing that his library in Kansas uses “photo booths” at certain library events, and uses hashtags so that patrons can share their photos while also promoting the library. 

All of these are fun and interactive ways to use mobile technologies...and it sure feels a long way from the days when there were signs everywhere in my public library, warning patrons not to use their phones at all.



Works Cited


King, David Lee. “Wired for Wireless.” American Libraries, January 4, 2021

https://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/2021/01/04/wired-for-wireless/

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