The Mobile Medical Library – Is There an App for That?

Abstract

The growth in the use of mobile devices to access the Internet is changing the information-seeking behaviors of medical library users. In response, medical libraries need to support their mobile patrons by providing access to library resources and services. This column addresses issues and consideration that libraries should address when recommending, licensing, or developing library-oriented mobile device applications. It describes the basic features of the three primary types of mobile applications (web, native, and hybrid) and discusses considerations that can guide libraries when developing their mobile strategies.

KEYWORDS:

• Android
• applications
• BlackBerry
• hybrid app
• iPad
• iPhone
• mobile devices
• native app
• smartphone software development
• Web app
• website

Notes

Comments and suggestions should be sent to the Column Editor: Nancy R. Glassman ([email protected]).