QR+Codes+in+Libraries

= = =How are QR codes being used?= QR codes are being used by many different industries. Some examples of QR codes in use are:
 * Air Travel
 * a passenger's boarding pass information can be represented as a QR code, replacing the need for paper boarding passes


 * Retail Marketing and Promotion
 * product and warranty information are provided through QR codes


 * Passport Application
 * quicker application processes

(Hampton, Peach, & Rawlins, 2011, p. 7)

=How are QR codes being used in libraries?=

There are two main uses for QR codes in libraries: marketing and library services.

//Marketing//
The internet and professional literature are filled with ways to improve the marketing of your institution using QR codes. Some examples include QR codes that lead patrons to your library's website, or directly to the catalogue. Other options include storing all of the library contact information (address, phone number, email address, website, Facebook page etc) into one QR code. Once a patron scans the code, all of the information will be stored in their phone and easily accessible.


 * QR codes can be used to create digital "wayfinders" in the stacks." (Pulliam & Landry, 2011, p. 72)


 * Reader's advisory services: A QR code is affixed to a book. Scanning this title leads to suggestions for other similar titles.


 * Shelving help: Determining where the books go exactly on the shelf


 * Library Instruction: Determining what needs to be covered or skipped in instruction


 * Links to resources, links to information on text service, links to video information (Massis, 2011, p. 467)


 * Links patrons to online reference services


 * Self-led audio tours: Touring the library, directed by QR codes at your own pace (Hampton, Peach & Rawlins, 2011, p. 8)


 * Providing personalized, location based services to patrons at University library (Walsh, 2010, p. 56)


 * "Linking from print to electronic journal holdings, providing an electronic alternative to physical books, promoting online audiovisual materials, embedding video help, bringing external resources into the library, finding appropriate help and taking the catalogue record with you" (Walsh, 2011, 433-434).


 * Booking private study rooms