QR Codes in the Library: Use 2-D barcodes to offer the coolest services ever
RSSWhile augmented reality (AR) is quickly becoming a reality and not just a dream of the future, the technology is still beyond the reach of most libraries. But there are ways to begin exploring the integration of the digital and physical worlds. They include the quick response (QR) code, a more complex barcode that can transmit a larger amount of information.
Magazines, billboards, and even product packaging have used QR codes to deliver enhanced content to consumers who scan them with a phone camera. While true AR applications overlay digital information on a view of the physical world through the camera’s lens, QR codes simply link to that information. In many cases, the code contains a URL that, when scanned, sends the phone’s browser to a website. Additional data such as contact information or even an email message can also be embedded in a QR code.
| Got a smartphone? Using a QR reader app, scan the above code created by fifth grader Sabrina Rathi a student of John Schumacher's (See the QR code story) |
QR codes are still somewhat novel in this country, but in Japan they’re already a tried- and-true method for sharing data. Widespread smartphone adoption in this country has made QR code access more commonly possible.
So what’s being done with the technology? The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing a new car label that incorporates a QR code with fuel economy information, comparing the scanned car against other models. Ubimark Books is using QR codes, as well. Its enhanced version of Around the World in 80 Days, for example, contains QR codes directing readers to online audio, video, maps, and other interactive features.
Libraries can use QR codes to deliver a higher level of support and interactivity to patrons. Even better, the technology’s a snap to implement at little or no cost. Among several sites that let you create codes for free, QR Stuff, lets you make one that includes URLs, email, and phone information. And more dynamic codes are possible, ones that automatically send an email or SMS message. A school could implement an email or SMS reference service via QR codes placed around campus. Students with questions could then initiate a reference contact by scanning the QR code with their phones (wait, those are allowed in schools, right?).
QR codes don’t only work with phones. Think of them as more sophisticated versions of your standard library barcode. Instead of the flat, one-dimensional marker we see on inventory labels, QR codes are two-dimensional (2-D) barcodes. They do require a 2-D scanner, but there are a number of options available from barcode giants like Symbol/Motorola and Metrologic for under $300, including mounted, hands-free options like the Symbol MS4400 series. Then readers could scan books to access book trailers, reviews, or suggestions of similar titles.
Whether you’re looking to spread information in a smart, tech-savvy way or increase interactivity around library services, QR codes are a great way to start. They provide a first step toward the fully immersive experience of augmented reality,without having to spend a lot of loot. A couple of hours and a few sheets of labels or sticker paper and you, too, can have a QR-encoded library.
