Putting QR codes to the test

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to gain insight into patrons' preferences for quick response code (QR code) design as well as data about their potential benefits.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was used to learn whether patrons find it easy to use a QR code, to gather patrons' opinions about several possible library uses for QR codes, and to solicit additional ideas for using QR codes in libraries. A small-scale pilot project was implemented to learn whether the Libraries' patrons would make use of QR codes. To augment the data gained from the first two studies, five focus groups were facilitated.

Findings

The authors found that patrons generally find QR codes easy to use and would welcome a variety of library services on their mobile devices.

Research limitations/implications

Further studies on a variety of mobile devices would be a useful way to gain more insight into how libraries can take advantage of mobile communication to provide services to patrons.

Originality/value

This paper would appeal to academic libraries considering implementing QR codes projects as there are only a very limited number of studies on library users' preferences of QR codes.

Citation

Lo, L., Coleman, J. and Theiss, D. (2013), "Putting QR codes to the test", New Library World, Vol. 114 No. 11/12, pp. 459-477. https://doi.org/10.1108/NLW-05-2013-0044