Location‐based recommendation services in library book stacks

Abstract

Purpose

This paper seeks to suggest a model for location‐based recommendation services that enable greater access to print and electronic resources.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a synthesis of previous work in basic and applied collections‐based wayfinding incorporating library and information science (LIS) literature on user context and system recommendations.

Findings

The paper identifies problems that will need to be solved before implementation of the production‐level recommendation service and suggests possible implications the system may have on reference and instruction services.

Originality/value

The paper provides computing workflows necessary to implement a library recommendation service based on user location. iPhone Software Developer Kit templates are leveraged for modeling data and interface prototypes. Use cases and user models are developed.

Citation

Hahn, J. (2011), "Location‐based recommendation services in library book stacks", Reference Services Review, Vol. 39 No. 4, pp. 654-674. https://doi.org/10.1108/00907321111186677