Library texts

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss how text messaging offers a variety of ways to stay vital and visible to younger patrons with whom libraries most need to establish a relationship to ensure their future.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses narrowcasting, one‐to‐one communication and reference queries, all methods of text messaging

Findings

Even with the inherent drawbacks of message length and the incurring of charges by library users, there seems to be a place for text messaging services within the library framework. Because of the portability, popularity and pervasiveness of cell phones among our users, particularly our younger ones, this service is a way for us to stay current.

Originality/value

The paper provides an original viewpoint on how text messaging could be used in libraries.

Citation

Maxymuk, J. (2009), "Library texts", The Bottom Line, Vol. 22 No. 1, pp. 24-26. https://doi.org/10.1108/08880450910955413