A Review of “User Experience (UX) Design for Libraries”
The author describes the unique details that help librarians planning to implement these tools make informed decisions, such as how to claim your library’s Foursquare account if someone else set it up first and why it is important to do that.
Abstract
The author also discusses some technologies that one may not immediately think of when talking about location-aware tools, such as the use of augmented reality software to create layers of information accessible via mobile devices and the implementation of mobile payment services such as Google Wallet. For each technology discussed in the book, the author covers specifics about and major resources within the technology, software functions and features, uses and benefits, potential drawbacks and areas of concern, the culture that surrounds the use of the tool, how to use the tool to connect with patrons, and opportunities for libraries. He describes the unique details that help librarians planning to implement these tools make informed decisions, such as how to claim your library’s Foursquare account if someone else set it up first and why it is important to do that. He also looks at the impact on staffing, management, and workflows that comes with implementing any of these tools. The author acknowledges that the hardest part to getting started with location-aware services and QR codes involves overcoming the fear of failure through advocacy, gaining buy-in with management, and internal marketing. As with many new technology initiatives in libraries, marketing to library staff and patrons is the key to success, but equally important is understanding the patron side of what it means to engage with a library through the use of these tools. The author wraps up the book with a discussion of best practices to ensure long-term success, and metrics that help librarians assess their methods and plan for the future. The very last chapter looks at developing trends. Of course, change is constant with these tools, and it is important to stay current. Readers should think of this book as an excellent place to get started in learning about these tools. I highly recommend this book for librarians who want to learn more about this technology—how it works and how to successfully implement a project using these tools—for library school students who want to be prepared for using this technology on the job, and for library administrators who want to make informed decisions about the use of these tools in their libraries.