Using a free augmented reality application, University of Houston-Downtown librarians have been working to create an engaging and memorable library orientation activity for students that will launch in Fall 2013. Come join us in this fun session to see how augmented reality is being used “in the wild” and brainstorm with us about ways this emerging technology could be used in libraries.

Reflection:

I’ve been interested in applications of augmented reality technologies and techniques for a little while now and I thought this presentation was a solid presentation about one school’s attempt to incorporate Augmented Reality into library instruction. As reported in this article, their project had four major goals:

1. to orient students to library resources and services;
2. to increase student retention of material;
3. to reach out to students beyond traditional library instruction sessions; and
4. to increase librarians’ “approachability” as perceived by students.

Their presentation began with a basic overview of augmented reality applications in other settings (business, publications, museums, etc.) that was helpful for context but was not new for those already familiar with augmented reality technologies but still helpful to encourage library thinking!

The pitfalls and limitations of augmented reality have been chronicled elsewhere, but I’m an optimist and want to focus on the positive and exciting potential for augmented reality in libraries. Here is a short list – inspired by their talk and later dreaming:

• Library instruction/orientation. This is how the University of Houston was planning on implementing AR technology and it seemed very promising.
• Bridge gap between print and digital. If a book is available in both print and electronic, use augmented reality to create link into digital. Creating additional access points – might be more symbolic than useful (but certainly more useful than QR codes!)
• Navigation within the building.
• Open up special collections – make a rare book or photograph collection more interactive.
• Campus tours with interactive maps, pictures, media, etc.

Obviously, I think augmented reality technologies are great and have many potential applications in the library environment. I hope to be able to dedicate a bit more time to this in the future and keep learning about this emerging technology!