Digital revolution hoped to bolster Surrey's libraries (From Epsom Guardian)
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Digital revolution hoped to bolster Surrey's libraries
10:10am Saturday 23rd June 2012 in News By Louise Robertson
A digital revolution in the way people use libraries has led to the introduction of a free online app and wi-fi in all Surrey County Council branches.
The new app, which is available for both Apple and Android devices, is now the fastest way people can reserve, renew, browse for items and check their library account, both at home and on the move.
Inside libraries, people can also log on to free wi-fi in all branches, whether they use a library computer, their own laptop, iPad or smart phone.
The council hopes to earn up to £10,000 a year through the use of Google pay-per-click advertising through the online library.
Councillor Helyn Clack said: “Our libraries will always be a haven for people who want to read, study, research or simply browse for a good book.
“But these days libraries are so much more, whether you’re a book club taking part in a Skype chat with an author, or someone catching up with friends and family on Facebook.
“There is a generation of young people growing up for who it is second nature to read books on an e-reader or do their studies online.
“In Surrey we’re embracing technology to cater for these changing demands, showing our commitment to the future of Surrey’s libraries.”
Visit your online app store and search for the county’s IT contractor Axiell, then Surrey County Council to use the service.
sfocata says...
11:41am Sat 7 Jul 12
You just don't need a whole app to renew your books and search the catalogue. The web browser on your smartphone already has the necessary capabilities, meaning the applications can be stored on the server. The smartphone revolution has been largely great, but I really don't like the practice of making a separate app for every little function... we're in danger of sleepwalking back to the "walled garden" mentality of the early mobile internet of 10 years ago.