Mobile Technology in Libraries 

By Jennifer Harris 

In today’s modern library mobile technology is indispensable. Gone are the days of staying silent in the library. Patrons are encouraged to use their devices or borrow a device from the library for use. You will often find patrons using their smartphones to look up the title of a book they are searching for, take a photo of a new display, or post to social media using a hashtag. Libraries need to consider what it is that patrons need for using these devices while they are in the library.  

A way to charge devices while patrons are in the library by either providing a power station or access to power outlets is ideal. Some libraries will even let you check out a power bank and charging cords while you are in the library. Having fast Wi-Fi is another thing that libraries should invest in. Wi-Fi should be fast enough to run normal web activities and apps and support multiple users at once without slowing down. Comfortable seating is another welcome addition to any library. If patrons are comfortable, they will be more likely to spend a longer period of time in the library.  

Signs that are strategically placed around the library work well for promoting digital resources. By placing signs next to the reference desk, check-out counter or “selfie stations” you can easily promote online web services or apps. QR codes can also be used to scan and take a patron directly to the app needed to put books on hold, search for books, find a newsletter or find digital content.  

Digital content can be any of the services that patrons use by downloading apps. Overdrive and Libby are apps that are used to read e-books while Hoopla can be used to watch movies, tv, listen to music in addition to e-books, comics and manga. Social media apps are also very popular and can be used to keep patrons up to date with programs that are happening in the library. Patrons can even receive push notifications to know any time new information is posted. Databases are available for free on library websites and often not known about by the public but are a great resource used by students to find information. If you take the time to look for the digital services offered by your local library, you may be surprised by how much they have to offer.  

As of 2024, according to Pew Research,  

• 98% of Americans own a smartphone. 

• 90% of Americans have broadband service at home. 

• 93.9% of Americans mostly use a smartphone when accessing the internet. 

• 15% of Americans only use smartphones when accessing the internet.  

 

Digital technology is expanding rapidly. Libraries are in a position to help their community by providing free Wi-Fi, digital resources, providing devices to check-out or use in the library, and teaching our patrons how to use devices by offering special programs/classes. Ask your patrons what their technological needs are and do your best to meet those needs.   

How to download books on Overdrive

Works Cited 

King, David. “Library technology reports.” Library Technology Reports, vol. 57, no. 2, Feb. 2021, pp. 5–36. EBSCOhost, research.ebsco.com/linkprocessor/plink?id=63c2b574-9d14-3606-8ce6-ec1a2378b4f1. 

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