“Through the looking glass: envisioning new library technologies” mobile libraries, beyond the Web site

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to highlight recent and near-future innovations relating to mobile access that can facilitate new interactions between patrons and libraries. Design/methodology/approach – This paper explores mobile hotspots that allow library patrons to “check out” the Internet to access a world of information, as well as the related technologies on the horizon that are poised to transform Internet access worldwide. Innovative libraries and vendors are catching up to the implications of “mobile” beyond the Web interface and are making their collections and technological offerings available using re-envisioned bookmobiles, servers and library circulation modules. Findings – This paper finds that, by using new and cleverly reconfigured technology, libraries can continue to play a central role in the sharing of information in an increasingly mobile world. Originality/value – This paper demonstrates that the technological infrastructure that supports mobile libraries will continue to develop and expand access to information around the globe.