QR+Code+Cheat+Sheet

Best Practices When Using QR Codes:

 * Give your patrons a reason to scan a QR code: include a QR code in a giveaway, to access 'exclusive' or 'bonus' web content or as part of a game in a program. A patron is most likely to scan your library's QR code if there is a tangible incentive.
 * (Ahrenfelt, 2012)


 * Remember that not all websites are mobile-friendly. Ensure that the site your QR code direct your patrons to is set up for use on mobile technology.
 * (Vossepoel & Dunbar, 2012)


 * Don't forget to test your QR code before you print or publish it. It is also a good idea to test it using multiple platforms or technologies, just in case.
 * (Martin, 2012)


 * Analytics tools exist which allow you to measure how often your QR code is being scanned. These numbers will help you to determine the best uses for QR codes, and detect ineffective QR codes. There may be a simple change you can make to boost the usage; knowing which codes are effective and which are not is a great help. Some analytics tools include //QReateBuzz, TAGO,// and //BeQRious.//
 * (Martin, 2012)


 * Ensure that there is wireless internet access where you post the code. Many schools and public buildings, not to mention subways and elevators, have dead zones wherein no phones get service. Test the area before you put up your sign or poster.
 * (Martin, 2012)


 * Post QR codes in places where patrons are likely to have time on their hands. Does your library share space with a Recreation Centre? Post a QR code in the stands. Do your patrons often wait in lines for Reference or Circulation services? Provide them with the opportunity to check out your website while they wait.
 * (Martin, 2012)

Annotated Bibliography
Baker, L. (2010). Making physical objects clickable: Using mobile tags to enhance library displays. //Journal of Library Innovation, 1//(2), 22-28. //The article outlines an example of the use of QR codes in an academic library. QR codes were incorporated into a display, and circulation and online interaction with related materials increased.//

Dempsey, M. (2011, April 19). //QR Codes for a Library Tour.// Retrieved from http://qrinlibs.blogspot.ca/2011/04/qr-codes-for-library-audio-tour.html //Brigham Young University is using QR codes to provide patrons with a self-led library tour. Photos and a detailed description of this usage of the technology are provided in this blog post.//

Hampton, D., Peach, A. & Rawlins, B. (2011). Reaching mobile users with QR codes. //Kentucky Libraries, 75//(2), 6-10. //This article outlines the current and planned future uses of QR codes at Kentucky State University. Some uses include providing students with access to the catalogue, and providing shelf location for items in the catalogue. Potential uses include helping library staff streamline shelving, self-guided library tours, and Readers’ Advisory.//

Hicks, A. & Sinkinson, C. (2011). Situated questions and answers: Responding to library users with QR codes. //Reference and User Services Quarterly, 51//(1), 60-69. //This article is an academic study examining the effectiveness of QR codes in an academic library. It finds despite some disadvantages, QR codes are a worthwhile new technology to investigate further.//

Jackson, D.W. (2011). Standard bar codes beware – Smartphone users may prefer QR codes. //Law Library Journal, 103//(1), 153-158. //This article examines how QR codes are used in law libraries and how value may be added by using QR codes in the library.//

Loar, B. (2011, February 8). //QR Codes in Libraries.// Retrieved from http://www.bryanloar.com/2011/02/qr-codes-in-libraries.html //This blog post examines the implications of QR codes in libraries. Specific emphasis is placed on the issue of the digital divide with regards to QR codes and libraries. Links to further reading are also provided.//

Massis, B.E. (2011). QR codes in the library. //New Library World, 112//(9), 466-469. //This short article examines what QR codes are, how to use them creatively and their general use in the library.//

Pulliam, B. & Landy, C. (2011). Tag, you’re it! Using QR codes to promote library services. //The Reference Librarian, 52,// 68-74. //This article looks at mobile tagging using QR codes in the library. Understanding how to use QR codes effectively in libraries is explored along with disadvantages and advantages of QR codes.//

Walsh, A. (2011). Blurring the boundaries between our physical and electronic libraries: Location-aware technologies, QR codes and RFID tags. //The Electric Library, 29//(4), 429-437. //While this article spoke of three topics equally: location-aware technologies, QR codes and RFID tags. The QR code section was the one examined. It provided practical tips on using QR codes in the library.//

Walsh, A. (2010). QR codes – Using mobile phones to deliver library instruction and help at the point of need. //Journal of Information Literacy, 4//(1), 55-63. //This article examines combining the use of QR codes with GPS technology in order to ensure that patrons are receiving library instruction and help at the point of need. Other technologies that may provide similar user services (such as RFID) are also examined.//