The end of one year is always a good time to start thinking about things you'd like to see changed in the next. I've started thinking about tech developments I'd like to see in libraries in the near future. And as I'm looking at some upcoming presentations on library futures, I'd love to hear what you'd like to see.
Location, location, location - We've been seeing more and more happening in location based mobile apps over the past several years. There's Foursquare, where you could check in. Now, Foursquare tells you about what's going on nearby. Google has Google Now, providing information on where you should be and how long it will take you to get there based on current traffic conditions. Passbook on my iPhone alerts me whenever I'm within a few blocks of a Starbucks. Wouldn't it be great if my phone would let me know when I'm near a public library? And if I'm near mine, I'd love to be reminded that there's a book on hold waiting for me. Or how about an alert that a library program is coming up that day? Are there any other library location services you'd like to see?
Foursquare
Google Now
Passbook
Library card phone app - I would also love to be able to check out books and use other library services with my smart phone. I've had apps that would keep track of store card loyalty cards, but not library cards. I have an app that lets me pay for Starbucks drinks and goodies with my phone (this is also the one that alerts me when I'm near a store). The ultimate for me, would be to be able to check out books from the library using an NFC (Near Field Communication) chip. But even being able to store my library card barcode on my phone would be a big advantage over having to haul cards around.
Augmented library maps - How often have you walked into a library and found yourself somewhat disoriented. Not knowing what's available, you're not even sure where you want to start. Do you need to get a library card first? Should you get an idea of the resources available so you know whether or not you want a card at this time? Google has been working on Indoor Maps. Reportedly you can provide them with a floor plan and they can integrate it into their maps. You can also walk around with a camera and provide photos. I think this is only available for Android at the moment. So I tried looking up some of the places listed as having indoor maps on Google but wasn't able to figure out how to get inside. TWiT does off a walkaround of their studios in Petaluma. But it was actually pretty confusing. I got trapped in one corridor. Still I can't help but think how nice it would be to see some maps and visual tours of libraries made more accessible. I expect this will be even more useful as devices like Google Glass come on the market.
Google Indoor Maps for Museums
What do you think of my Top 3 for 2013? What would you like to see?
