LIBR 246 Week 13

• If a library were only able to offer one mobile based service, what do you think it should be and why?

I think the most important mobile based service to provide is the basic library website.  Without the basic hours and location it may prove less inviting for patrons. The website should have simple and easily accessible links to the hours of operation, locations, services (like speakers, story times, etc.), and links to other mobile based social networks like Facebook and Pinterest pages. Also, any mobile reference services already offered by the library should be included with this webpage through easy links.  If a student is accessing a mobile website we can be fairly confident that would be one of the preferred ways to communicate with librarians and other information sites.  

The article by Houghton also recommended providing a link to allow for feedback on how the site is functioning. This feedback would be vital in assessing the strength of the mobile website, correcting any faults, and potentially expanding mobile services.  I also think, with any mobile service, it is key to provide a link to the main site, so people are not forced to use the mobile site if is not providing them with exactly what they want or are used to.  This is a pet peeve of mine, sometimes I don’t want the mobile website and can not find a link back to the main sit...very frustrating! 

In a perfect world, every library would offer their catalog online for users to browse, search, reserve, and even review.  However, a basic website must be available in a mobile format first for basic functionality, and later perhaps a catalog link can be added.

Houghton, S. (2012). Mobile services for broke libraries: 10 steps to mobile success. Reference Librarian, 53(3), 313-321.