Today, we head north to San Jose, CA where the San Jose Public Library completes the release of their mobile app that's also being powered with technology from Boopsie.
Actually, we used the word "complete" because what's actually new today is the release of the iPhone version of SJPL Mobile. Other versions (Android, Blackberry, Windows Mobile, etc.) have been online for over a month. We found a couple of Android app directories that listed SJPL Mobile (Android) being available since July 23, 2010.
You can access the version that works for your mobile device by simply heading to sjpl.boopsie.com. You'll then be automatically redirected for your device.
If you're an iPhone user you can also download a free copy of the app by heading to this URL.
UPDATE: For the two days visiting Mobile.SJPL.com on an iPhone launches a web app and does not send you to the NATIVE APP listed above. So, at least for the time being, use this URL to download the native iPhone application.
Some Features of the App (iPhone Version) Include:
+ Use of GPS (if available) to assist in finding closest branch.
+ A Direct Link to EBSCO Mobile.
It's great to see mobile versions linking directly to other mobile tools. We need to see more of it. Yesterday, we pointed out that text-to-speech is now available for all EBSCOhost databases accessible on desktop and laptop computers. While no date has been announced and it's still something that EBSCO is considering, text-to-speech would be especially valuable on mobile devices.
+ Access to the Library Catalog
Note the "Smart Prefix" Feature, Results Change as You Type. You can also use Smart Prefix to type with fewer letters. For example, Lib o cong will return Library of Congress material.
+ A Link to Review New Materials Added to the Collection.
The new "new book shelf" of the 21st Century. (-:
+ Contact Info for Questions and Homework Help
+ Of course, staples available on most mobile library sites including OPAC search, an event calendar, and user access to their accounts.
Finally, we really like the design of the opening screen and the use of the SJPL logo at the top of each page.
Kudos to the SJPL Digital Futures Dept. (great name, btw) and the entire library staff.
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