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 technologythe university library digital reading roommobile access for workplace and language trainingthe role of an agent supplying content on mobile devicescyberlearning and reference services via mobile devicespodcasting as an outreach toolservice models for information therapy services delivered to mobilesbibliographic ontology and e-bookshealth literacy and healthy action in the connected agea collaborative approach to support flexible, blended and technology-enhanced learningThe 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.