AZLA Annual Conference
2018 Program Book
How to Fit a Library in Your Pocket: Libraries in the Mobile Age
Program Description:
As of 2016, 77% of Americans own a smart phone and this number continues to rise. During the last 10 years we have seen the rise of large technology companies which constantly seek to simplify user experience and integrate product functionality across different devices and platforms. As such many have come to see Google as a rival and threat to libraries. But rather than see Google as competition we propose learning from their user design and product integration. In February 2018 the Buckeye Public Library System launched the Falcon Digital Library App with support from an LSTA grant. The app was necessary to continue to serve a growing population that spans over 600 square miles. The app was designed with an incredible focus on User Experience, from color scheme, to font, to branding we attempted to build an app that looked and functioned like the ubiquitous apps that our patrons are already using. In addition we have sought an iterative approach to the app development and are seeking to use third-party APIs to continue to add integrated functionality into our library-branded app as the technology improves. Finally we have worked with third-party vendors such as Gale and World Book to allow access to databases and resources from the app without having to reenter patron credentials. In April of 2018 the Chandler Public Library launched CPL Mobile. Working with Communico, the app can further promote library resources and enhance customer service on any mobile device. As a system of four library locations serving a population of 256,000, the app is a convenient option for accessing, utilizing, and enjoying all that the Chandler Public Library has to offer. Staff will describe what we were looking for in an app, lessons learned during development including establishing our feature priorities, soliciting user input when we were working with a template, and marketing the app - from launch and ongoing. Together these two experiences will help others by exposing them to the challenges and benefits of using mobile technologies, as well describe future trends in digital libraries and mobile apps.
Presenters:
Jesse Simms
Library Technology Specialist
Buckeye Public Library System
Jesse Simms is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science at the University of Arizona and is a member of Knowledge River, Cohort 16. Jesse has worked at the Buckeye Public Library System for nearly four years and in that time has overseen three LSTA Grants, navigated three product integrations, and managed a circulating STEAM collection. In addition, Jesse is the Chair of Maricopa County Library Council’s Tech Talk which meets quarterly to discuss forward-thinking, tech-based ideas in library environments. Jesse has a passion for User Experience and seeks to build library services that conform to the public and their needs, while positioning the library as an invaluable fixture in the ever-growing digital world.
Marybeth Gardner
Administrative Librarian - Collection Management
Chandler Public Library
Marybeth Gardner has been with the Chandler Public Library for almost 20 years. She is currently the Administrative Librarian for Collection Management, overseeing the system's collection of resources as well as providing leadership to the marketing and outreach teams.
Links:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=co.communico.buckeye
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=co.communico.chandler