Discovery Apps & Plug-Ins
John Andrews, Trey Gordner, Joseph Sanchez, Ben Rawlins
The presentation opened about libraries in the digital world and how we are no longer the first stop for information or even books. This session focused on three different libraries systems who building either apps or plugins based upon their “deep understanding” (Yes, that’s a Young reference) of their patrons and community.
The Washoe County Library has implemented the plug-in Koios which was a really awesome plugin. The way it works is the plug-in (after the download it for free) will notify users while they are searching for an item(on Amazon, Google, Netflix, etc.) - if it is available at their local library.
If the item is available, they can place a hold or even suggest the library order it! This is super easy and user-friendly and it even bypasses the catalog by communicating directing to the ILS.
This plug-in is compatible with Overdrive and other third party apps depending on how the ILS is set up. The plug-in allows libraries to pull statistics of not only uses or circs or holds but of searches made (even if the user does not send a request to the library to order their searched item). It has the potential of being an amazing collection development tool.
ALA covered Koios in the following article: “Reading Remotely”
While, I did not see any potential for this particular app for the library. I thought the presentation made by the Mesa County Library was exemplary. The discussion of branding and brand perception hit home based on our most recent staff training. One of the best examples of branding was:
Which was more impactful the first iPhone or the iPhone 7?
The presenter discussed how the BEST branding and user experience opportunities are possible with the connection between past-present and future. This was an interesting idea that I had never considered before - but it made sense. Let me explain.... First off, our brand is based upon on the past (the initial patron -library interaction) and this built upon by the present (current interaction) being consistent with past standards, but then enhancing the experience with the future (trends and promise). Thus, with emerging technology or even just programming or customer service - combining past- present- future allows for one tangible user experience (hence supporting the brand).
This knowledge can only help our organization's user experience and branding.
The presentation by Georgetown College was about an app for college students learning about scholarly research, citation, and sources. I sadly do not have much to say about this particular app as I do not believe it will service our community. However, there are those rare cases in which college students ask these questions (what is primary source, how do I cite, etc.) at the public library rather than their academic library. Therefore, staff should be aware that apps do exist to assist students, but that these again are rare cases.
THOUGHTS
My thoughts on this session was that the first portion was really exciting and I could see great uses for KOIOS to help collection development and circulation. The other two examples were interesting, and provided great examples of how Deep Understanding of a community can be impactful through technological services.
I would be very interested to see if Koios is something that our library could utilize. Anyone else see pros or cons to these especially Koios?
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