QR Codes in the Mathematics Books - Update

Last Fall (2010), I began to think about how it would make the most sense to utilize QR codes in the mathematics section of the Ayala Science Library. I don't think it is surprising that I thought of linking to our mathematics ebook collections. Springer immediately came to mind for several reasons: 1) we stopped receiving print in 2008; 2) contains many mathematics books; 3) subsets of mathematics ebooks in SpringerLink were easily linkable; and 4) at the time, Springer's website functioned decently on a mobile device (unfortunately, this has since changed when they added the frames environment to giver viewers the preview look).I considered other publishers/vendors, but they were simply not functional in the way that I needed them to be.

 

This QR code takes the scanner to the Topology section of the Springer ebooks.

What do you think? Does this look aesthetically unpleasing or too intrusive to have the QR code shelf guides sticking out like this? Do you have other ways you would integrate the QR codes in the stacks of your libraries? How would you make them inviting to engage and encourage your patrons to use them?

Some Observations of Research Help

Provided research help yesterday for student in a lower division writing course. Some observations:

• Student used the word "website" continuously instead of "database."
• Student was confused about difference between Ebscohost, Academic Search Complete, and a particular subject database in Ebscohost.
• Student needed to use multiple databases, which only be found though different pathways. Thus, I had to repeat these pathways about 3-4 times. Can only hope student will remember.
• Student's assignment due "tomorrow" (which is now today, but you know what I mean)!
• Student wanted articles! Actually quite pushy about it, even though I was convinced he could find equally valuable information in books (perhaps even better).
• Student wanted citations (needed 15 for assignment). I was a little concerned he was just going to pile citations without actually reading the material.
• Student could not identity how to find full text. I can't say this is in any way the student's fault.
• Libraries' systems and databases do not make this easy
• The process looks & often is different almost every time (sometimes the SFX link goes directly to article, sometimes it doesn't).
• And of course, each database looks different. JSTOR has PDF easily visable. Another database has the PDF link made tiny and hidden off the right side of the screen. It goes on and on...
• Very hard to determine exactly what student does and doesn't know.
• Research need as expressed by student in completed form did NOT match actual student information need.
• Definitely good idea to write down notes for them as take away reminders. What are the key ideas they should walk away with after meeting with a librarian?

I was able to notice more because this student was fairly assertive, in this way gave some insight into his thought process (even if it was still confusing to me). No doubt my own responses confused him at times. 

I want to compile my observations and turn them in action items. Suggestions anyone?