Information consumption is and will increasingly be on the move because of the proliferation of emerging technologies to access information. People have the technology to access information from anywhere and anytime, which requires libraries to provide the services to meet their expectations. This book contributes to the expansion of information on the move using mobile technology by showcasing successful implementation and best practice to inform and inspire others. In some instances, libraries have to be transformed in order to take up the challenge of providing services to mobile users. The chapters in Part 1, Transformation, illustrate how libraries and librarians have been transformed and how this can be achieved, with services ranging from SMS messaging for content alerts to enhancing access to collections using QR codes. Part 2, Inspiration, is a collection of chapters selected to motivate others and inspire reflection and discussion. Examples are given of the power of mobile technologies to support mass education in India and to challenge the traditional delivery of healthcare in the UK and worldwide, alongside an eclectic collection of thought-provoking contributions from educators and librarians. In Part 3, Implementation, library practitioners from around the world describe how they have planned and implemented highly successful and innovative mobile services.

The chapters in this book are authored by experts, practitioners and researchers from around the world, providing a global perspective and picture of the use of mobile technology in libraries. As more library resources and learning materials become available in electronic format, it is crucial for users to be able to access them using the mobile device of their choice. Librarians have an important role to play in facilitating users’ access to quality electronic information and learning materials and supporting users who need help with using the technology. This is increasingly important in lifelong learning, where people of different age groups are accessing online information and may not have the option of using print.

To conclude, the publication of this book is timely in order to accelerate the use of mobile technology for the consumption of information on the move. In the emerging technology age services are provided to people anywhere and anytime using a range of technologies.