UNL libraries expand technology to mobile devices

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln's libraries are now at the tips of students' fingers with a new mobile Web site.

The site allows access to the library catalog, the contact information for the UNL libraries and a database of scholarly journals through mobile devices such as cell phones and Personal Digital Assistants.

"We know that many students, or people of this age, use mobile devices," said Joan Barnes, assistant professor of practice at the university libraries.

She said the new site will give students a new entry point to the library through those devices.

"It's all about giving them flexibility," Barnes said.

Because the Web site is meant for the screens of mobile devices, it has a different look than the regular library Web site.

"It's very stripped down," Barnes said, meaning that there are not many graphics.

Tracy Bicknell-Holmes, chair for research and instructional services, said that while she would not want to read a scholarly journal article on a mobile device, the mobile Web site would allow students to find a bunch of articles and mark them for later.

"I like being able to look up books on the catalog and then text the call number to myself," she said.

Barnes said the feedback of the new Web site has been positive. One of the students who has given feedback particularly liked having access to databases of journals.

The university is looking into expanding the information people can access through the mobile site.

"I personally love resources that are available on the mobile Web site," Bicknell-Holmes said. "We're trying to target the most heavily used resources."

Because the mobile Web site is a pilot project, Bicknell-Holmes said it's important for students to give feedback.

Barnes agreed. The library is waiting on what students ask for before implementing any changes, she said.

"We hope students try and let us know how they like it, let us know what they want added," she said.

kimbuckley@dailynebraskan.com