Libraries are a source of knowledge. It sounds easy to say, but history has proven this. Al Qarawiyyin Library, the oldest library in the world, established in 1359 CE, is still in operation in Fez, Morocco.
However, we live in a world of technology surrounded by a tech-savvy and internet-literate crowd. With the development of e-books and e-reading apps, everything is available at your fingertips, from old cherished classics to learning materials. However, the public libraries are a treasure trove. They can contain ancient books and rare manuscripts which may not be available elsewhere. Many famous public libraries still exist and continue to serve.
But as much as public libraries are helpful, it can be a difficult task to manage them today. You have to procure books in bulk quantities. Then the books should be arranged in order. It is hard to keep track of the movement of books. Here, technology comes to the rescue. This blog focuses on how public libraries can utilize and leverage the power of technology to enhance customer satisfaction and retain patrons.
Tips for Leveraging the Benefits of Technology for Good!
Public libraries can make use of technology to make it easier for the patrons as well as for themselves. Here are some things that libraries can do to stay functional without any hassles.
- Maintaining a website
In this digital age, people live and breathe on social platforms and the internet. So, establishing your online platform is the best way to increase customer engagement. The website should contain useful information to help the public obtain preliminary information. It should contain basic info, an overview of the services, with address and contact information. A photo gallery will be beneficial as it helps people explore your library from their comfort and piques their interest to visit the library.
- Online Procurement
It is a challenging job to maintain a library. It is important to keep your website up-to-date with all the new books and the latest editions added to the library. To ensure abundant book availability, they must be procured online. Buying books from online sellers will save a lot of time and money. Online sellers offer shipping at limited or no cost. It will help in keeping the shelves stacked. Purchasing from the online market helps you stay on top of your needs without unnecessary follow-up requests.
- Organizing
Libraries contain many books, and cataloging software will simplify management and organization. It will help you locate where the books are, and they can be quickly found. It will save time and relieve you of the unnecessary task of physically searching for books. This organizational structure and software will also help in keeping track of books. There can be books in several languages, different types, and different editions. Having cataloging software will ensure that any book will be available anytime without delays.
- Books Management System
When it comes to keeping track of borrowings and returns of books from the library, technology can help. Even a simple tool like a spreadsheet can come in handy for tracking books. However, you can take your management to the next level with advanced technology. With the assistance of SaaS cloud solutions, you can store all the essential information. A software that maintains the log of borrowings and returns of members with titles, dates, and their details in one place. It will help you ensure that borrowed books are returned on time and that there are no shortcomings.
- Social Media Presence
A social media presence is a necessity in this modern world. It will help your crowd realize your existence and initiatives. Social media helps you keep up with the happenings of the literature world. You can find out what people are interested in and the new developments. You can learn about new book releases, events, and other important updates. You can also access interesting magazines and newsletters on social media and widen your network. Libraries have a certain charm and have used it to hold events like book signings and literature seminars. It will draw people into such events.
- Knowing Public Opinion
Social media can help you keep up with the current affairs and trends. A library can also use its online presence to keep in touch with readers and discover their tastes and preferences. It may seem unconventional, but you can use your online presence to create surveys on what readers like to understand them better. It is a proactive step to understand customers’ needs and make improvements accordingly to reap benefits.
- Harness the power of AI, data analytics, and other technologies.
Emerging technologies, like AI and data analytics, can make your game powerful. Investing in high-tech tools, like self-service technology, or using data analytics to gain customer preference insights allows you to change your business strategies and tactics accordingly. People like upcoming technologies; if your library has one, your patron customer service will evolve to the next level.
Wrapping up,
Public libraries play a huge role in making knowledge and information accessible. While technological growth has brought a reader close to the source of their needs, libraries still play a big role. With technology becoming affordable to all, public libraries should look into the opportunities created by it.
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