Additional information
by Ben Rawlins (Author)
The ever expanding usage of mobile technologies has dramatically changed how we access information and how we as a society expect to access information. With mobile technologies becoming available to an increasing majority of the population, users are constantly connected to information.
The rapid expansion of mobile technology has had a profound impact on many different sectors, industries, and institutions, among those that have been affected are libraries. With more users expecting access to information and resources in a mobile optimized format, libraries have had to adapt to meet the needs of users. This has entailed evaluating various library services and resources to determine how to best meet the needs of mobile users. Additionally, mobile technology has changed the way that websites are designed, and has led to an increasing popular type of web design know as responsive web design (RWD). This enables web developers to design websites with one code base that are optimized for a wide range of devices from desktop computers to smartphones. Libraries must keep their mobile services current or risk becoming obsolete. Based on research, examples, and experience using mobile technology, this book will include topics such as: The impact of mobile technologyMobile technology and the Digital DivideImplications for library staff and vendorsResponsive Web DesignWearable technology in library services Mobile Technologies in Libraries: A LITA Guide is written for library staff interested in how mobile technologies have changed the way we access, and expect to access, information, as well as how libraries can incorporate and adapt to mobile technology.Author Biography
Ben Rawlins is the Director of Library Services at the Ensor Learning Resource Center at Georgetown College in Georgetown, KY. In addition to his role as Director, Ben is in charge of the library's website, mobile presence, and other digital services. He has developed several mobile websites and applications for the iOS and Android operating systems. He has presented at several national conferences including the LITA National Forum, ALA Midwinter, ALA Annual, Computers in Libraries, and the Handheld Librarian Conference on a variety of topics related to mobile services in libraries. He is the author of the book Mobile Devices: A Practical Guide for Librarians and has co-authored articles that have been published in Kentucky Libraries, The Reference Librarian, and Mobile Library Services: Best Practices. In addition to his Masters in Library and Information Science, Ben also holds a MA in History. He can be reached at brawlins4@gmail.com.
