One of the topics we are discussing this week is mobile communication. Many libraries are adopting this new technology and it seems to be working for most. I think the following remarks from our readings are pertinent for libraries when looking at mobile communication.
Students are results-oriented and value convenience. This emphasis coupled with the design constraints on some devices promotes a need to get to relevance quickly. Socialization, personalization and location awareness become very important.
This new mobile communication will defiantly impact libraries, in how they develop collections and how research skills are evaluated. Two points that were brought up in our readings. I think the main point that I gained from our readings this week, is to keep the application as simple as possible for the end user, the library patron.
In this day and age of instant gratification, most patrons will find it a necessity to use this technology. Is this good or bad, I am still not sure.
In this in-depth article Dempsey explores the many ways mobile communication can be utilized by libraries to ensure their validity increasing numbers of patrons who depend on this technology.
ReplyDeleteOne key area is people and their presence, both online and in-person. Continually adapting and adopting marketing strategies that will notify patrons of evolving products and services is important. Maintaining a physical presence allows for better communications between patron and librarian. I recently had a tour of East Providence Public Library with the reference librarian who did not have a stationary desk. She explained that the library had decided on a roving librarian to greater visibility and establishing more a sense of community. Perhaps an addition would be for he/she to be equipped with a headset/walkie that would connect with other staff to answer questions more quickly and effectively.
Also, a good point is that interactions with patrons should be less anonymous and more personal. With all the social media patrons are using, personal connections are imperative.
Since 2003, I have worked summers at the URI library. I can't tell you how many students needed help while I was in the stacks! It would have been helpful if there were a roving librarian to answer the many questions I could not.