Mobile Library Research Articles

Mobile services in the libraries of the world’s top universities

PurposeAs many organizations and institutions in recent years are trying to update their hardware and software platforms toward using mobile technology, libraries and information centers as trustees and leaders of information management and information science need to be futurists in this area. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the status of using mobile-based services in the world’s top university libraries.Design/methodology/approachIn this direct observation and quantitative research survey, the authors reviewed the status of using mobile-based services in the libraries of the world’s top universities.FindingsThe results showed that 84 percent of the libraries of the top 50 universities in the world have made their websites mobile-friendly and provide mobile-based services; however, only 30 percent of them have designed mobile library application. The findings of this study revealed that mobile phone services such as “Search catalog,” “Hour of library,” “Contact,” “Ask the librarian” and “News” in more than 50 percent of the libraries with mobile-based services has been used. While some services like “Services for disabled,” “Library card,” “Library Strategic Plan” and “Financial services” are less important to deliver on the mobile platform.Research limitations/implicationsThe results of the current research are only limited to this environment. Furthermore limited access to all features of some mobile library applications is another limitation of this work. Also, failure to download some of the university apps from the usual App store due to the nationality of the researchers is other limitations of the study. The authors try to find more details of these apps with connecting to the librarians of this statistic society.Practical implicationsThe research results indicated that the majority of libraries in the world’s top universities have moved toward designing and using mobile platform in their websites. This survey suggests that the academic libraries of developing countries in order to follow this trend are supposed to plug in most used services based on experience of academic libraries of top universities.Originality/valueThe research results indicated that the majority of libraries in the world’s top universities have moved toward designing and using mobile platform in their websites. This survey suggests that the Iranian academic libraries affiliated with the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology and the Ministry of Health and Medical Education are also trying to follow this trend in order to meet the users’ information needs.

Perceptions toward academic library app implementation

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the perceptions of Kuwait University students majoring in the social sciences, faculty members and academic librarians toward mobile library applications (apps), which are not currently available. These technologies are highly desirable for students, but many libraries struggle to properly implement them.Design/methodology/approachQuantitative survey questionnaires were distributed to 400 undergraduate students, of which 184 valid and completed questionnaires were collected. In addition, three focus groups were conducted with social sciences graduate students, academics and librarians to further explore attitudes and perspectives toward library apps.FindingsA majority of respondents (62 per cent) visited the academic library less than five times per month or never, but a smaller majority (57 per cent) also preferred to use a combination of computers and mobile devices to access library information. The most desirable student uses for library apps involved access to basic information or services such as library hours, book renewal or catalog searches. Most potential barriers to student use of library apps received low scores; only slow internet speed was considered a significant problem. Focus group discussions clarified that major concerns regarding the implementation of library apps included the potential cost, knowledge, training and administrator support for these efforts.Originality/valueThis study highlights the unique interest in, and barriers to, library app implementation at Kuwait University, while providing an informative structure for similar studies and considerations elsewhere.

Factors Affecting Acceptance of Mobile Library Applications: Structural Equation Model

Abstract Acceptance and intention to use mobile applications in a library context is attracting a great deal of interest in education field. A sparse amount of research was conducted in mobile library applications (MLA) previously, investigating the influential factors of intention to use MLA. Research here aims to provide empirical support on acceptance of MLA, library access through mobile applications, with the model developed by taking a technology acceptance model (TAM) in MLA context by adding perceived mobility value, system accessibility and satisfaction for investigating the influence on behavioural intention to use MLA. A self-administrated cross-sectional survey was conducted to collect data from 321 users of MLA in the COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT) in Islamabad, while a structural equation model (SEM) using analysis of moment structure (AMOS) software was used for examining quantitative data. Results revealed that satisfaction and perceived ease of use are direct significant predictors of intention to use MLA, whereas system accessibility was influenced by the perceived ease of use. However, the perceived mobility value shows a weak effect on intention to use MLA in terms of perceived usefulness. Results serve as a guide for effective decision-making in development and resource allocation to ensure the success of the library’s vision and mission.

Activity of the Odessa library association in the 1920's.

Article Viktor Sokolov «Activities Odessa library association in the 1920-s» explores the features of the formation, structure, basic forms and methods of work of the Odessa library association against the background of major trends of library associations in 1920-s Ukraine s. The purpose of the proposed article is to study the historical background, socio-political, cultural factors and characteristics of the Odessa library association study of its organizational structure, content and nature of work during the period of its operation (1922–1930), and its significance the development of library construction and Odessa oblast libraries in Ukraine as a whole. In his scientific work is widely used by the general scientific and historical research methods: historical-comparative, chronological, biographical method, the diachronic analysis and others. The article describes the social and cultural conditions of the Odessa library association; marked the main stages of its development and operation features; reveals the importance of coordination of associations in the city and district libraries; analyzed the characteristic shape and features of this public professional organization in the training and retraining of library staff. An analysis of sources and research materials, the author defines and describes the main positive features of the Odessa library association and its main achievements. The author analyzes the changes in the organizational structure of the Odessa library associations main characteristic means and methods address the members of the association of certain professional tasks described features of the sections, the mechanism of setting and decision making. The main directions of the Odessa library association were: formation and development of professional skills of librarians; improving the efficiency of urban libraries through the organization and coordination of their activities; establishing a system of methodological assistance to libraries of various types and, in particular rural and mobile libraries; promotion of scientific research, cultural and educational activities libraries. It was found that the further development of the Odessa library association prevented a certain regimentation of its operations and control of the management of library and some opposition from the trade unions. Requirements governing bodies of political education plans to unify the forms and methods of association, centralization of libraries in the country as a whole, restrained creativity and professional activity of members of the professional organization. Further development of associations interfere also not clearly defined functional orientation of its activities that it caused duplication of some functions of trade unions and political education. At the end of 1920-s Party and Soviet government bureaucracy gradually established tight control over all aspects of political, social and working life of society, of course, work its way into the Odessa library associations and slowly made his first public institutions to give administrative and coordinating functions, and professional and methodical, while not stop its activities in the early 1930-s.

English

This article presents a brief historical review of the appearance of mobile libraries and then continues to define the phenomenon on the basis of two of its distinct features: library services and mobility, which both concern institutional Mobile Libraries and non-institutional mobile libraries. In addition, special reference is made to the significant presence of non-institutional mobile libraries in the world of books. The text closes with a short reference to the social contribution of mobile (and mobile) libraries (education and lifelong learning, entertainment, communication - connection - meeting) to everyone and, more particularly, to people with special physical and/or social needs and the necessity to support the continuation of their operation. Key words: Mobile libraries, non-institutional mobile libraries, library services, library mobility, social contribution of mobile libraries.

English

The sustainable development goals (SDGs) in this study includes those dedicated to eradicating poverty, promoting gender equality and empowering women, ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all as well as developing a global partnership for development, all of which cannot be achieved without equitable access to information and freedom of expression. This study examines awareness of libraries and librarians on the importance of attainment of SDGs  in Osun State, Nigeria. The study population comprised 100 library and information personnel from all local governments in the state who were randomly selected by convenient sampling. The instruments used to collect data for the study were questionnaire and personal observation. Data were analyzed using descriptive research method. The findings revealed that many library and information personnel are aware of the sustainable development goals but are not conversant with the details and modalities for its attainment. Many of them are not familiar with the main contents of SDGs. None of the libraries examined have any immediate or long term plans for the attainment of SDGs neither do they have relevant programmes for the awareness of SDGs. It was recommended that libraries engage in information repackaging, awareness campaign, mobile library and outreach services and capacity building to ensure quality library service for the attainment of SDGs by 2030. Also, government at all levels and non- governmental organisations should provide increased budgetary allocation to support public and state libraries to enhance their effective library and information services. Key words: Awareness, libraries, librarians, sustainable development goals, 2030 agenda, Nigeria. &nbsp

Public library mobile apps in Scotland: views from the local authorities and the public

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine current public library apps in Scotland and assess Scottish public library users’ opinions of those apps.Design/methodology/approachTwo qualitative and quantitative surveys were conducted. One survey was distributed to each Scottish local authority, the entities responsible for public libraries and Scotland. The second survey was made available to the public. The results were analysed with nonparametric statistics and content analysis.FindingsAll 32 authorities responded. In all, 17 authorities had an app, two had one in development, and 13 had none. Offering an alternative means of communication to patrons was the main reason for providing an app, while cost and low priority were the main reasons provided against app provision. Authorities were satisfied with the core services offered in their apps, but less so with others. No authorities had consulted the public regarding app provision. The public (n=185), while satisfied with current library apps, criticised the complex procedures required to access external services. Patrons from authorities without an app stated interest in apps.Research limitations/implicationsIt is vital for public libraries to implement at least core services that are optimised for mobile devices. They should consult with the public before and throughout the development process to ensure they are happy with the implementation.Originality/valueThis is the first known study to explore public library app use in Scotland as well as one of the first in public library app use worldwide.

System Design Applications Android Based Mobile Library

The success and development of the current android capable of occupying the highest position gadgets and computer market, it is certainly due to the sophistication of technology systems and applications that are on it are currently a trend among mobile users because it can help all areas of work so that it becomes easier. The advantages of this android is located on an open source license so it is possible for anyone with an android programming ability to create or develop applications to run on Android-based gadgets. Library is one of the facilities which assist in the provision of resources in the educational process because the library provides lending facilities without any cost burdened. To expedite the process of search services and lending by the borrower to the library, we need a system that allows the members of the library to access library services, especially the process of borrowing books online using android based mobile application library. This study will integrate mobile application library with the Library Information System simulation database used in the Library of the Sekolah Tinggi Teknologi Bontang. This application is one of the technological development which is very helpful in facilitating mobile library services based course with the gadget android who has installed this application. Keywords: Android Gadget, Mobile Library, Opensource

People Perception Towards Public Reading Room Service Of City Garden In Surabaya

Surabaya as Literacy City has been starting in National Education Day 2 May 2014 and also rising their features and facility like Public reading room, Library and Mobile Library. And we also Concern with some worst Realty about literacy System in Surabaya, such as had been Close some library in Shoping Center in Surabaya, like in Cito Mall, Royal Plaza and Kapas Krampung Plaza cause some problem in operasional System have causing other problem can disturb many achievement of Surabaya as Literacy City. We have should to continue it for another Public Reading Room in Surabaya can’t be like another Closed public reading room. And we must to minimalize it with Resources learning through the efforts of reviewing public reading room of the service as an essential element in an information centre. In order to show better utilization of the future for the public after the assessment is the primary focus of our study was to determine the extent to which the services at the general public reading room so that the future can be used as a positive response for public reading room. The method used is quantitative approach with the method of data collection in the form of an explanatory through observation, literature, and the distribution of questionnaires to the respondents in all four public reading room in park city of Surabaya. Overall from 4 to place our study showed that the frequency of public perception in total into the bad category based on indicators of Vincent theory who leads a balanced way of internal and external factors. It shows that the public reading room services that already exist is still considered very less than the maximum and the indication of the need for an increase in the promotion, facilities and innovation program for the future.

An Introductory Analysis of Hataraku Jidōsha with a Focus on Mobile Libraries

An Introductory Analysis of Hataraku Jidōsha with a Focus on Mobile Libraries

Peran Perpustakaan Umum Bagi Masyarakat : Studi Kasus Perpustakaan Umum di Bali

Abstrak This study aims to (1) identify problems faced by public libraries in its development, (2) identify public library management system in Bali; (3) identify various programs developed in public libraries. This research is conducted by using qualitative research methods so that the target of this study is not on measurement, but on the understanding of social phenomena from the perspective of the participants or according to the perspective of emik. The results show that the common problems faced by public libraries are as follows: library buildings that are less representative; Lack of human resources / librarians; lack of library operational funds; job placement uncertainty. Public library management system is almost the same in every library, which distinguishes the allocation of funds disbursed by local governments. While the programs developed in public libraries include: mobile library; story telling; cross-service collection; rare library search; and special services. Keywords: public library, management, flagship program

Mobile Website Use and Advanced Researchers: Understanding Library Users at a University Marine Sciences Branch Campus

This exploratory study examined the use of the Oregon State University Libraries website via mobile devices by advanced researchers at an off-campus branch location. Branch campus–affiliated faculty, staff, and graduate students were invited to participate in a survey to determine what their research behaviors are via mobile devices, including frequency of their mobile library website use and the tasks they were attempting to complete. Findings showed that while these advanced researchers do periodically use the library website via mobile devices, mobile devices are not the primary mode of searching for articles and books or for reading scholarly sources. Mobile devices are most frequently used for viewing the library website when these advanced researchers are at home or in transit. Results of this survey will be used to address knowledge gaps around library resources and research tools and to generate more ways to study advanced researchers’ use of library services via mobile devices.

“Appily ever after”: how to create your own library mobile app through easy to use, low cost technology

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that library staff can develop their own mobile app without having significant technology experience by using existing, easily accessible low-cost programs. Smart phones and tablets are here to stay. Libraries need to embrace this trend by developing mobile apps to encourage reading and provide access to resources that are safe and educational. It is about putting technology at the service of reading. Susan Boller and Marie-Pierre Preece, librarians at Les Marronniers Primary School at the International School of Geneva, received wide recognition when they were awarded the 2016 ALA Presidential Citation for Innovative International Library Projects for their mobile application “Marronniers Library”. Design/methodology/approach The search to develop a mobile application was challenging. “The process was long and complex, as we had a very small budget and no particular expertise in information technology”. While researching the best way to develop an app for her library, Susan Boller explored a wide range of options with differing costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to over $20,000 (for a custom-built app). Findings It is feasible for a school library with limited resources to develop its own mobile application. The library staff can develop such an app without having significant technology experience by using existing easily accessible low-cost programs. Developing and maintaining such an app do not require specialist IT knowledge, and these can be done internally by people interested in technology. The app is good value. The annual cost, excluding subscriptions to databases, is approximately $400. Such an app is well sustainable. The chosen platform is flexible and allows the content to be continuously maintained and updated internally at any moment without additional cost. Originality/value Having been awarded the 2016 ALA Presidential Citation for Innovative International Library Projects demonstrates the originality of the author's “Marronniers Library” mobile application. It is, to the best of the author's knowledge, the only one of its kind in a primary school library.

Analysis of the Technology New Media Operation Mode and Its Enlightenment to Library Mobile Knowledge Service Platforms

Analysis of the Technology New Media Operation Mode and Its Enlightenment to Library Mobile Knowledge Service Platforms

Understanding mobile learning adoption in higher education

PurposeThis study aims to examine the factors driving an individual’s behavioural intention to adopt mobile learning in higher education.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from university students in China via a survey. A total of 192 valid responses were collected. Structural equation modelling was used to assess the research model.FindingsThe results show that both task and technology characteristics have significant impacts on task-technology fit (TTF), which in turn influences attitude. And attitude significantly affects behavioural intention. Regarding the factors, attitude was found to be the most influential predictor of mobile library adoption intention. In addition, the results provide strong support for the moderating effects of gender and experience on the relationship between TTF and behavioural intention.Originality/valueExtant research on mobile learning has mainly focused on investigating how user perceptions of mobile technology affect user adoption but has rarely considered the impact of TTF. This study attempts to fill this gap.

Spatial variation in accessibility of libraries in Hong Kong

Libraries play a significant role in supplying educational and cultural services. They are important public spaces that can contribute to creating social equality by providing unlimited access to information and public spaces for the community. In this research both the traditional measures (supply-to-demand ratio and straight distance) and advanced measures (population-weighted average nearest network distance and population-weighted average two-step floating catchment area (2SFCA) score) are used to assess spatial inequity in the distribution of libraries throughout Hong Kong. How accessibility has been changed after the introduction of two strategies for improvement (community and mobile libraries) is also examined, as are spatial demographic and socioeconomic characteristics associated with library provision. The results indicate that there is a substantial heterogeneity of library provision in Hong Kong. Community and mobile libraries have significantly improved the library provision in several areas, although spatial inequality remains. Areas with demographic and socioeconomic groups with lower accessibility to library services were further identified. Data at multiple geographical scales were used, and consistent findings were obtained, confirming the robustness of the results.

Portuguese mobile libraries: 50 years travelling throughout the roads, lands and people of Portugal

The Mobile Libraries in Portugal, have influenced the promotion of books, reading, and knowledge. They always promote something more... Its history, its reappearance, the difficulties and its potential to take the library out of its walls

Editor’s note: Welcome to the second issue of the Journal of New Librarianship

This open journal is the result of collaborative efforts among colleagues within the field of library and information sciences. Our second issue contains more varied content than in the first. We have our first international content - a photo essay on Mobile Libraries in Portugal. We offer that essay in both English and the author’s native Portuguese. We also have articles on the use of VR headsets in information literacy instruction; 3D printing, emergency preparedness, faculty perceptions of academic social networking, library competencies, and a number of edifying book reviews.   We are committed to publishing a multitude of viewpoints, encouraging dialog, and at times, provoking our readers to think and respond.

A biblioteca móvel e o hábito da leitura: estudo de caso do BiblioSESC em bairros de Salvador

Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, cujo objetivo foi analisar se e como ocorre o incentivo ao hábito da leitura por meio das atividades do BiblioSESC. Para tanto, foi adotada a técnica de aplicação de questionário junto aos usuários, para fins de análise sobre o incentivo ao hábito de leitura em três bairros de Salvador, os quais foram contemplados com a programação da Biblioteca Móvel do Sesc em 2016. Assim, observou-se que a referida Biblioteca Móvel tem incentivado o hábito da leitura. Quanto aos leitores, estes passaram a ser protagonistas sociais, auxiliando na aproximação de outros sujeitos com a leitura.

Libraries on the Move: By Land, By Sea, and By Air

Libraries are critical to literacy development, particularly in developing nations where literacy rates are low, poverty rates are high, and resources are limited. School libraries in developing nations often suffer from inadequate resources, staffing, and facilities. Mobile libraries have been delivering resources and services via land and water routes to communities in developing nations, though their support of school children may be limited. Emerging technologies in the form of digital mobile libraries offer the potential to bring high quality resources and services to schools and communities. In this paper, the authors discuss/explore myriad mobile libraries, particularly in developing nations, the state of school library programs in developing nations, and the potential of digital mobile libraries to transcend the physical walls of libraries to better foster literacy for students and their communities.