Hi
There has been quite a demand for a library app from our customers because our online catalogue isn't easy to use on a mobile phone and sadly there still aren't many LMS vendors offering responsive or mobile friendly online catalogues as a standard package. (Correct me if I'm wrong).
In my experience of using library apps it is much faster to reserve and renew items using the app than using the library catalogue. I don't have to use a phone browser to find the library website, then find the link to the catalogue, I just tap the app. Plus I can scan a barcode of any book - it doesn't have to be a library book - and the app tells me if it's available to reserve/borrow from the library.
When I started to use the new LoveFilm app I reserved lots more films than when I just used the Lovefilm website on my PC and I think library apps have the same effect. Ideally all library catalogues will be designed to be used on any device but until that fantastic day I think apps make life a lot easier and they don't have to break the bank.
Sue Lawson
On 31 Jan 2013, at 08:55, Philip Wark <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> I know this may be an heretical question but what added value does an app give?
> As far as I can tell it only provides information and tasks already available on the website. I was at a training session last week and wanted to know if the library service had a particular book. I went to the website on my phone and checked the catalogue. It didn't take that long - an app may save half a minute in searching time. It is worth the money???
>
> Best wishes
>
> Philip Wark
> Library Services Manager
> Midlothian Council - Education and Children's Services
>
> Library HQ
> 2 Clerk Street
> Loanhead
> Midlothian EH20 9DR
>
> tel: 0131 271 3971
> fax: 0131 440 4635
> [log in to unmask]
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: lis-pub-libs: UK Public Libraries [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Iona Preston
> Sent: 30 January 2013 17:44
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: Solus App
>
> We are investigating getting the Solus library app - would anyone who already uses this be able to share their experience with me? I'm interested in how it's best used, user experience etc.
>
> Thanks very much
> Iona
>
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