Public library mobile apps in Scotland: views from the local authorities and the public
ISSN: 0737-8831
Article publication date: 12 January 2018
Issue publication date: 9 May 2018
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine current public library apps in Scotland and assess Scottish public library users’ opinions of those apps.
Design/methodology/approach
Two qualitative and quantitative surveys were conducted. One survey was distributed to each Scottish local authority, the entities responsible for public libraries and Scotland. The second survey was made available to the public. The results were analysed with nonparametric statistics and content analysis.
Findings
All 32 authorities responded. In all, 17 authorities had an app, two had one in development, and 13 had none. Offering an alternative means of communication to patrons was the main reason for providing an app, while cost and low priority were the main reasons provided against app provision. Authorities were satisfied with the core services offered in their apps, but less so with others. No authorities had consulted the public regarding app provision. The public (n=185), while satisfied with current library apps, criticised the complex procedures required to access external services. Patrons from authorities without an app stated interest in apps.
Research limitations/implications
It is vital for public libraries to implement at least core services that are optimised for mobile devices. They should consult with the public before and throughout the development process to ensure they are happy with the implementation.
Originality/value
This is the first known study to explore public library app use in Scotland as well as one of the first in public library app use worldwide.
Keywords
Citation
Kerr, A. and Pennington, D.R. (2018), "Public library mobile apps in Scotland: views from the local authorities and the public", Library Hi Tech, Vol. 36 No. 2, pp. 237-251. https://doi.org/10.1108/LHT-05-2017-0091
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2018, Emerald Publishing Limited