Using Augmented Reality Tools to Enhance Children’s Library Services

Abstract

Augmented reality (AR) has been used and documented for a variety of commercial and educational purposes, and the proliferation of mobile devices has increased the average person’s access to AR systems and tools. However, little research has been done in the area of using AR to supplement traditional library services, specifically for patrons aged six to ten with access to mobile devices. This examination of the current state of AR technologies and accompanying use case examples posits that integrating augmented reality services into a children’s library (school and/or public) can enhance reader’s advisory and reference services where library staffing or time is insufficient to meet the needs of the patrons. In addition, the possibility of integrating an indoor positioning system is discussed as a method for fully implementing augmented reality services/tools to serve the interior navigational needs of young library patrons.