The Use Of Mobile Services In Public Libraries Across The United States

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many businesses scrambled to find ways to stay relevant in a time when people were staying home. Libraries had to evolve as well, and many began to offer curbside services. However, patrons of these libraries needed to continue to be able to connect with their library. Mobile apps, mobile reference services, mobile library catalogs and mobile printing were some of the services that libraries began to offer if they did not already have them. To determine what services libraries in the United States were currently offering, the author surveyed 151 libraries based on circulation, making sure to include at least one library or library system from each state plus Washington DC. The survey included mobile visits, content analysis and librarian survey responses. The results show that every library surveyed had at least one mobile website, mobile catalog, mobile app or website optimized for a mobile device. The libraries have added services as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic in order to further connect with their patrons. The mobile presence of libraries today is growing and now includes mobile printing, access to mobile databases, ability to make mobile reservations and connect with a librarian – all from the comfort and safety of their home.