Leo Lo, Jason Coleman and Danielle Theiss
– The purpose of this paper is to gain insight into patrons' preferences for quick response code (QR code) design as well as data about their potential benefits.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to gain insight into patrons' preferences for quick response code (QR code) design as well as data about their potential benefits.
Design/methodology/approach
A survey was used to learn whether patrons find it easy to use a QR code, to gather patrons' opinions about several possible library uses for QR codes, and to solicit additional ideas for using QR codes in libraries. A small-scale pilot project was implemented to learn whether the Libraries' patrons would make use of QR codes. To augment the data gained from the first two studies, five focus groups were facilitated.
Findings
The authors found that patrons generally find QR codes easy to use and would welcome a variety of library services on their mobile devices.
Research limitations/implications
Further studies on a variety of mobile devices would be a useful way to gain more insight into how libraries can take advantage of mobile communication to provide services to patrons.
Originality/value
This paper would appeal to academic libraries considering implementing QR codes projects as there are only a very limited number of studies on library users' preferences of QR codes.
Details
Keywords
Danielle Theiss‐White, Jenny Dale, Melia Erin Fritch, Laura Bonella and Jason Coleman
The purpose of this paper is to describe the new virtual reference system Libraryh3lp, developed to assist librarians with managing multiple instant messaging (IM) patrons at one…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to describe the new virtual reference system Libraryh3lp, developed to assist librarians with managing multiple instant messaging (IM) patrons at one time.
Design/methodology/approach
A summary of the main features of the Libraryh3lp system, including setup and reports; and a discussion of how to provide staff training.
Findings
This paper provides an overview of the Libraryh3lp virtual reference platform including what it does, how it works, and its benefits for reference managers.
Originality/value
This paper is useful for information management professionals who are looking for a low‐cost, reliable alternative to current IM software systems.