M‐libraries 3: Transforming Libraries with Mobile Technology

Citation

McNicol, S. (2012), "M‐libraries 3: Transforming Libraries with Mobile Technology", New Library World, Vol. 113 No. 9/10, pp. 499-500. https://doi.org/10.1108/03074801211273975

This collection of essays is based on the proceedings of the Third International M‐Libraries Conference held in Brisbane in 2011. It includes contributions from librarians and researchers from around the world, demonstrating how mobile technology is an issue with which all educational libraries need to engage.

The collection is divided into three sections. The first, Developing Mobile Library Services provides seven case studies illustrating how libraries are researching, planning and implementing a range of services for mobile users including podcast services, e‐readers and consumer health information. The second section of the book focuses on People and Skills. This refers both to training and skills development for library staff involved in mobile service provision and also the delivery of information literacy skills in an information environment. The final section is entitled Focus on Technology and considers the various services, tools and techniques which are now being used in library settings.

The majority of the chapters of this book offer case studies of the implementation of mobile technology, or report on local level research into the possibilities. The variety of approaches described is one of the striking features of the book, catering for different types and sizes of library and potential users, as well as a range of mobile technologies. Anyone considering developing services in this area is sure to find inspiration from at least one of the projects described.

What the collection lacks, with the exception of Mohammed Ally's introductory chapter, is a more considered analysis of the concept of m‐libraries and a synthesis of current knowledge, or a direct comparison of different approaches. One of the most interesting chapters of the book is Andrew Walsh and Peter Godwin's analysis of the concept of mobile information literacy, which is then related to activities at their respective libraries. M‐libraries 3 would have been strengthened by more chapters of this type which offer more than a description of yet another mobile technology project. Perhaps the lack of more analytical articles reflects the emergent nature of the field and this is something which will develop in future collections from this conference.