5.7 Online Library Catalogs on Mobile Phones
Libraries are required to interact with the software vendors to create mobile compatible WebOPACs4. For example, AirPac add-on product will auto detect the type of device you are using and format accordingly the catalogs without graphics for better viewing. libSirsi-Dynix, Innovative and Library Anywhere developed by Library Thing have similar options. OCLC’s WorldCat Mobile application pilot allows users to search for and find books and other materials available in their local libraries through a web application they can access from a PDA or a smart phone5.
To provide location-based services, libraries have to use mobile telecommunication system, the internet/web based OPAC on intranet and geographic system like GPS. Many phones have built-in GPS, which allow users to navigate to locations and, if activated, allow others to find them. OCLC’s Worldcat mobile application for iphones makes use of this feature when identifying local libraries. Libraries with multiple branches like public libraries can capitalize on the GPS function to create custom maps and navigational tools to branch locations.