Mobile Technology and Libraries

The Internet of Things: Mobile Technology and Location Services in Libraries

On Technology and Libraries in the Twenty-First Century

Libraries face profound service challenges in the twenty-first century. Some of the challenges relate to changes in the networked information landscape of the last several decades, including the massive and direct availability of information without mediation of a librarian, the challenges associated with curating and describing massive quantities of data, and the renewed challenges related to library as a place combined with perennial questions about the future of print. The intersection and culmination of several of these effects of networks, spaces, and data are poised to disrupt technologies within libraries as the so called Internet of Things (IoT). The IoT is comprised of billions of connected devices that usher in a new realm of possibility for library service development and innovation.

Possible Futures of the Internet of Things in Libraries

The hypothetical and supposed IoT benefits to libraries involve issues around how technologists will be able to combine data that might be produced, consumed, or generated from IoT devices to provide innovations in service understanding, which may in fact lead to deeper automation. The data that are produced by inventory control over libraries might in fact help collection developers better understand how users interact with physical spaces.

Mobile Technology, Location-Based Service, and the Internet of Things

Given the technological challenges, how do libraries respond to the IoT strategically and with impact? In this guide, written for the library generalist and those with an interest in technology, we explore a case study of an IoT implementation that makes possible location-based recommendation services in an undergraduate collection, discuss other approaches to providing location-based services, and also give serious consideration to the privacy and security issues associated with such novel technology. The implementation utilizes commercially available IoT technologies (i.e., proximity beacons deployed in a grid system) in combination with existing mobile device affordance for Bluetooth-based indoor locating. Several of those technologies include near field communication (NFC) and new Wi-Fi standards. Software that delivers real-time directions to our point of interest has generated high service expectations for functionality based on location. With these high expectations, we have found from our iterative tests in the library that students expect real-time location guidance within a building.

Maughan Library

I can see the benefits of libraries going mobile in an effort to amplify access to library services. Through mobile devices patrons are able to connect to a wide array of information in the library and enhance library services. The advantages of catering to this mobile technology provides patrons the ability to access library information and books on the go. Although there are plenty of benefits there is a lot more to consider like the security, safety and cost. "Libraries are headed towards meeting the expectations of 21st century patrons who are using mobile technology for work and play". In my opinion, as a mom, I would be concerned regarding the security and safety of children accessing the internet on their own without any limitations. 

Hahn, J. (2017). The Internet of Things: Mobile Technology and Location Services in Libraries. Library Technology Reports, 53(1), 5-28.

http://web.a.ebscohost.com.ezproxy.palomar.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=4&sid=884a021b-a61c-4433-a88a-3d836c38a8b1%40sessionmgr4008

Maughan Library-Wikipedia

Assistive Technology and Libraries

School library accessibility: the role of assistive technology 

Assistive technology is a relatively new and rapidly developing field of educational technology specialization. Additionally, many special educators remain unaware of the range of enabling technology options for special needs students. Teacher-librarians can help students with disabilities make the most of media-rich school library resources by implementing accessible technology options.

Teacher-librarians have further expanded these collections with the multimedia resources and information technology now available in school libraries. It is easy to take for granted the ability to gain knowledge through print and electronic resources -- unless one lives with a disability that makes this difficult or impossible.

How can library resources be of greater use to students and staff with special needs?

Fortunately, more students with physical, perceptual, communication, cognitive and learning disabilities are now benefiting from the wide range of assistive technologies being developed to facilitate educational participation and access to learning.

AT applications are used by many professionals in the fields of health, rehabilitation and education. Low-tech strategies and tools that are frequently used in libraries include large-print books, colour-coding techniques and the use of symbols as visual cues. Audio books and videotapes are other popular resources used by disabled and non-disabled persons. A diverse collection of materials helps to create an inclusive library. However, other more sophisticated high-tech options are also available.

RATIONALE FOR USING ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Assistive technology services in the school library provide new opportunities for students with disabilities and the people who interact with them. K-12 teacher-librarians have a new and important role to play in helping youngsters with disabilities develop skills with assistive technology that will allow them to enjoy literature, research and learning throughout their lives.

Why use AT in the school library?

• Access to information

• Skill development and progress

• Competency and efficiency

• Specialization

• Self-esteem and self-reliance

• Peace of mind

• Peer acceptance

• Lifelong learning tools

Assistive Technology at Richland Library

The Richland library has implemented several assistive tools for visual impairments and learning differences. They have text-to-speech and magnification devices available to increase students reading skills. I find that the world is becoming more aware of the vast need of assistive technology in libraries, which are areas that are accessible to the public. There are many assistive technological aids available for people with disabilities. We need to find the means to implement them into schools and libraries. Assistive technology will allow students with disabilities to become more independent therefore giving them more confidence which promotes acceptance.

Hopkins, J. (2004). School Library Accessibility: The Role of Assistive Technology. Teacher Librarian, 31(3),
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zR86SJ5dUgE

Libraries and the Digital Divide

Libraries: Linking Seniors in a Digital World 

See this video on how computer training and access to technology are empowering seniors in Houston.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has donated and installed 40,000 computers in 10,000 public libraries, giving rural and lower-income communities in such places as South Dakota access to e-mail and online resources.

New study shows libraries need support to sustain quality access to free computer services

CHICAGO -- Nearly every U.S. public library offers free access to computers and the Internet, but overall libraries are challenged to provide enough workstations to meet demand, pay for ongoing Internet connectivity costs, and plan for necessary upgrades to the technology, according to a report released today at the opening of the American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference. The report was conducted by the Information Use Management and Policy Institute at Florida State University (FSU) and commissioned by the ALA and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Millions of Americans use computers in public libraries to access government services, research health information, enroll in distance-learning classes, and start small businesses. Library computers have become so popular that more than 85 percent of libraries say they are not able to meet demand for computers at certain times during the day.

“Libraries are an indispensable resource for Americans seeking information online and in print,” said ALA President Carol Brey Casiano. “Visits to public libraries have more than doubled to 1.2 billion annually in the past 12 years, and many of these people are coming for computer and Internet access. To ensure free and open access for all Americans, we must keep library doors open and fund library technology initiatives.”

Should Internet access for the poor be subsidized?

The Internet is revolutionizing the world economy, but some parts of the global village are being left behind. The growing gap between the information-rich and the information-poor means many rural and low-income areas -- and much of the Third World -- could lose out on jobs and economic development. Many public-private partnerships are trying to bridge the digital gap.

I think that although there has been plenty of advancement in implementing and making technology available in public libraries, there is still a long way to go. There is a very high demand for computers and many libraries are not able to meet this demand. Especially in poor rural areas. According to the video above there are many seniors who are seeking technological training as in the libraries in Houston, Texas. Many patrons that also visit the library for digital purposes are people who have no access to the Internet at home and people looking for continuing education. The demand is there, it's the implementing and costs that need to be analyzed and worked on.

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
https://www.gatesfoundation.org/Media-Center/Press-Releases/2005/06/Support-Needed-for-Library-Technology
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhOZpcqQtgQ&index=6&list=PLCE1B8F42CC5CDC8C

Koch, K. (2000, January 28). The digital divide. CQ Researcher, 10, 41-64. Retrieved from http://library.cqpress.com/

The Rise of the Library Mobile App

With the advent of smartphones a little over 10 years ago, the way people gather information has changed.  It is no longer necessary to use a dial-up modem (that is revealing my age!) or home Wi-Fi to connect to the internet.   We can get information right at our fingertips anytime, anywhere; it’s called mobile technology for a reason.  There are some portions of the population that do not own a standard computer and only access the internet via a smartphone.  According to a 2018 Pew Research Poll, 77% of Americans own a smartphone.    The same survey also found that of those Americans aged between 18-29, that percentage increases to 94%.  What does this mean to libraries? How have libraries jumped into the mobile technology game?

Libraries have adopted many kinds of technologies in an effort to remain relevant in today’s ever-changing world.   Mobile technology is just one of many that libraries use to captivate and engage patrons.    The ability to serve patrons in a format that is useful and familiar is paramount and this includes apps.  There are apps for libraries, apps for librarians, apps for e-books such as OverDrive or Libby by OverDrive, and apps for databases such as EBSCOhost.  Apps are everywhere and I’m sure you’ve heard someone say, “there’s an app for that.”

A survey conducted in 2017 by the Library Research Service (LRS) found that 37% of libraries offer a mobile app while 72% have a website that is optimized for use on mobile devices.  The size of the library has a direct coloration to if an app is available.   The same survey reveals that libraries with more than 500,000 patrons are the more likely to have an app.

What’s in a library app?  In 2014, the OCLC wrote that a general mobile app should include: “library hours, interactive map of branch locations, patron data, and historical document collection abstracts.” That does not seem like much information.  What about access to the catalog?  What about storing my library card, paying fines (I don’t have any, I promise!) or putting holds on books? Thankfully library apps have advanced in the last few years.   The previously mentioned LRS survey from 2017 reports that, “97% of the responding libraries reported that their library provides mobile access to the library’s catalog.”

One of the biggest app developers for libraries is BiblioCommons.   I mention this company for two reasons: first, I like what they have written on their website about libraries:

We live in a world increasingly divided by opportunity, by beliefs and by loneliness.  Luckily, public libraries have always been about narrowing divides and building stronger, more informed communities.  The library brand stands for much more than just access to free content.  It also stands for trust, neutrality, openness, inspiration, and the freedom to explore one's curiosity wherever it may lead.  But new needs are emerging and the library must continue thinking ambitiously about ways of addressing these needs.

 

The second reason I mention BiblioCommons is they are the company that developed the San Diego Public Library (SDPL) app. 

Since I like to keep things local, I took a look at the San Diego Public Library app.  I headed over the Apple app store and I download it.   It is called SDPL To Go.  According to the app description, I can do the following:

·         Get details on any title

·         Save Titles for later

·         Check a title’s availability and map the locations where said title can be found

·         Check due dates and renew items

·         Check holds

·         Find and download e-books

·         Get branch hours or directions

I have to say that I enjoyed using the app more than the traditional website.    I did my search using the first book I found around my house: Cleared for Takeoff: The Ultimate Book of Flight written by Rowland White.   I was able to scan the publisher’s barcode on the back.  That made the search quick and easy.  I see myself using this feature standing in the middle of Barnes and Noble when I am feeling too cheap to buy a book. Why buy when I can borrow?  Thanks SDPL.

 Works Cited

BiblioCommons website. Information accessed from https://www.bibliocommons.com/about/

Ebsco website. “Becoming a Mobile-Friendly Library Website.”  Information accessed from https://www.ebsco.com/blog/article/becoming-a-mobile-friendly-library-website  June 13, 2017.

Library Research Service website.  “Library Journal and SirsiDynix find that 2 in 5 public libraries offer a mobile device app to their patrons.”  Information accessed from: https://www.lrs.org/2018/04/18/library-journal-and-sirsidynix-find-that-2-in-5-public-libraries-offer-a-mobile-device-app-to-their-patrons/  April 18, 2018.

OCLC website.  “Mobile Apps—Introduction to Development.” Information accessed from www.oclc.org/developer/news/2014/mobile-apps  January 10, 2014.

Pew Research Center. Information accessed from http://www.pewinternet.org/fact-sheet/mobile/ Published February 5, 2018.

Assistive Technologies and the Digital Divide

Discussions regarding the digital divide initially centered on challenges in access to technology due to finances. The term “digital divide” was coined by Larry Irving Jr., former Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Telecommunication and Communication, to describe “the gap in access to information resources and services between those with the means to purchase the computer hardware and software necessary to connect to the Internet and low-income families and communities that cannot afford network access” (Reitz). Since then, the discussions have expanded scope to include other challenges to access such as geographic challenges to physical access and infrastructure, challenges related to various socio-demographics, challenges based on culture, challenges due to political activities and governmental policies, and challenges in information and technology literacy.

A set of challenges to access not discussed to the same degree in these conversations on the digital divide include physical and mental disabilities and impairments. The following video by Iowa State University students highlights this aspect of the digital divide and provides examples of assistive technologies that have been developed to address certain disabilities and impairments: https://youtu.be/oqg_t5v0OW8 (LaVille).

It is important to note that the previous video is over seven years old and the technologies discussed have advanced since then. 

Equality in access to technology is the goal of bridging the digital divide, sometimes referred to as “digital inequality.” In Libraries in the Information Age, Fourie and Loe state that those who work to bridge the digital divide “believe it would also improve literacy, further job skills, inform citizen-voters, promote social advancement, and improve health,” (p. 265) as well as promote economic growth and equality. With more and more activities in our lives being aided by and carried out over the Internet, it is understandable where Fourie and Loe’s sentiments come from. 

The public library has long been considered “the people’s university” and bridging the digital gap is now part of that; According to Fourie and Loe, “school and public libraries are at the forefront of providing free access to the Internet”(p. 268). 

In the interest of improving access for those with physical and mental disabilities and impairments, many libraries have implemented assistive technologies such as “large print books, closed captioned video recordings, Braille signage, voice amplification devices, screen magnification and screen reading software, [and] voice recognition software” (Reitz).

That being said, many of these technologies have yet to be perfected. The following video depicts the challenges a high school student, with visual impairments and difficulty using his fingers, faces when browsing the Internet with assistive technologies: https://youtu.be/ppFqymFThJw (momalboe). 

If we hope to bridge the digital divide in our libraries, it is imperative that further development of assistive technologies be promoted and that libraries are prepared to implement them.

References

Fourie, D. K., & Loe, N. E. (2016). Libraries in the Information Age: An Introduction and Career Exploration (3^rd ed.). Santa Barbara, CA: Libraries Unlimited, an imprint of ABC-CLIO, LLC.

LaVille, J. [jalv6] (Producer). (2010, December 13). Kinected: Internet Access and the Physically Disabled [Videos file]. Retrieved April 24, 2018, from http://youtu.be/oqg_t5v0OW8

Momalboe. (2010, October 09). how would you? A glimpse at disability and the digital divide. Retrieved April 24, 2018, from https://youtu.be/ppFqymFThJw

Reitz, J. M. (2014). Online Dictionary for Library and Information Science. Retrieved April 24, 2018, from https://www.abc-clio.com/ODLIS/odlis_a.aspx