Abstract

A new generation of learners in an increasingly global information environment require libraries to play a greater role than ever in the delivery of education and training. Mobile technology offers huge potential to help libraries transform their service models to meet this challenge. A brand new edition of the highly successful "M-Libraries series", this draws together cutting-edge international contributions from the leading authorities in the field. Based on the proceedings of the Third International M-Libraries Conference held in Brisbane in May 2011 it explores the variety of work that libraries are doing across the world to deliver resources to users, via mobile and hand-held devices. The main strands of discussion include: mobile services and their development; mobile users, their behaviour and requirements; emerging technical developments including new platforms, devices and applications; strategy and infrastructure developments at national level; reflections and feedback on new service models; and, local innovation. This is an essential topical guide for information professionals in all sectors and also for policy makers, researchers, developers, publishers and suppliers. It will also be invaluable for students of library and information science and newcomers to the profession.
"...a topical guide for information professionals in all sectors. These include policy makers, researchers, developers, publishers and suppliers. Students of library and information science and newcomers to the profession will also find it an invaluable resource. The book reads easily; bibliographies appearing at the end of each chapter can prompt further reading, and a useful index concludes the book." - Online Information Review
"...a seminal contribution...an essential, core contribution to Library Science reference collections. - Midwest Book Review
Professor Mohamed Ally BSc Ma PhD is Director of the Centre for Distance Education, Athabasca University, Canada. Gill Needham BA (Hons) DipLib CertMan MSc (Econ) is Associate Director, Information Management and Innovation at the Open University Library and Learning Resources Centre, UK.