M Libraries 2

Interest in m-library services has grown exponentially in the last five years, as libraries are recognizing the potential of ubiquitous and increasingly sophisticated mobile devices. Building on the highly regarded M-Libraries: libraries on the move to provide virtual access, this new book brings together research and case studies from all corners of the globe on the development and delivery of library services and content to mobile devices. Based on the proceedings of the Second International M-Libraries Conference held in Vancouver, this new collection of contributions from authorities in the field serves to demonstrate the ingenuity and creativity of developers and service providers in this area, ranging from the innovative application of basic mobile phone technology to provide information services in remote parts of the globe lacking internet access, to the development of new tools and technologies which harness the full functionality of popular mobile phones. Key topics include: enhancing library access through the use of mobile technology the university library digital reading room mobile access for workplace and language training the role of an agent supplying content on mobile devices cyberlearning and reference services via mobile devices podcasting as an outreach tool service models for information therapy services delivered to mobiles bibliographic ontology and e-books health literacy and healthy action in the connected age a collaborative approach to support flexible, blended and technology-enhanced learning The collection demonstrates the emergence of an evidence base for m-libraries, with a number of contributions presenting the results of user surveys and studies of user behaviour. Readership: This highly topical book should be read by information professionals in all sectors, and by policy makers, researchers, developers, publishers and suppliers. It will also be of great interest to library and information studies students and newcomers to the profession.

This title draws together international authorities to explore the variety of work that libraries are doing across the world to deliver resources to users via mobile and hand-held devices. Based on the proceedings of the Third International M-Libraries Conference held in Brisbane in May 2011, this draws together cutting-edge international contributions from the leading authorities in the field. The main strands of discussion include: • mobile services and their development • mobile users, their behaviour and requirements • emerging technical developments including new platforms, devices and applications • strategy and infrastructure developments at national level • reflections and feedback on new service models • local innovation. Readership: Information professionals in all sectors, policy makers, researchers, developers, publishers, suppliers, LIS students and new professionals.

"Mobile Phone Ownership is considerably more ubiquitous than internet access via personal computers: more and more people around the world are carrying a tiny mobile device of some kind in their pocket or handbag. The environment in which people find and use information is changing - we are busier, we are constantly on the move and whether we are shopping, booking a holiday or looking for train times we expect instant results. What does all this mean for libraries?" "The development of networked technologies opened up huge opportunities for libraries to make their resources and services accessible to their users regardless of distance. The opportunity to deliver these to users via their mobile phones, PDAs and other handheld devices will be as significant a challenge. Indeed, if libraries choose to ignore this challenge, they are in danger of being left behind in an increasingly competitive world of information provision and services. This authoritative collection of contributions from experts in the field, based on the First International M-Libraries Conference, explores the technical and social context for m-libraries, describes a range of global initiatives with lessons learned, and discusses the potential for future development."--BOOK JACKET.

A brand new edition of the highly successful M-Libraries series, this draws together cutting-edge international contributions from the leading authorities in the field. Based on the proceedings of the Fourth International M-Libraries Conference held in Milton Keynes in 2012 it explores the variety of work that libraries are doing across the world to deliver resources to users via mobile and hand-held devices. The main strands of discussion include: - Imagination - looking at the future of m-libraries - Transformation - focusing on the transformation of services, learners or institutions through the introduction of mobile technologies - Inspiration - focusing on mobile innovation - Implementation - case studies of successful implementation of mobile services - Collaboration - a discussion of mobile strategy and ideas. Readership: Information professionals in all sectors and researchers, educators, technical developers, managers and library professionals. It will also be invaluable for students of library and information science and newcomers to the profession.