How to read and create QR Codes, examples and ideas for libraries.

1. Enhancing Patron Interaction
with the Library
Sheryl Walters, MLS
Reference & eResources Librarian
Logan College of Chiropractic / University Programs

2.  QR Code Basics
 QR Codes in Use @ Logan
 How to Read a QR Code
 How to Generate a QR Code
 Stats
 QR Codes in Use @ Other Libraries
 QR Codes in Use Outside of Libraries
 Discussion

3. • QR Code - Quick Response Code
• 2D Matrix Barcode
• Usually a white square with black geometric shapes
• Can be created in color and/or with integrated designs
• Codes may contain:
• Web Addresses
• Location and Contact Information
• Vcard or Blackberry Contact Cards
• Phone Numbers
• Small Amounts of Text
• Email Addresses

4. QR Codes are typically square and can be any size as long as it
is readable.
The more information encoded, the more complex the design.
QR Codes are able to contain much more info than barcodes.
Phone Number URL 5 Lines of Text

5. May improve user interaction with library services.
Makes library appear tech friendly and appeals to tech savvy
patrons.
Shows library is forward thinking and adapts new trends.
Budget friendly – can implement right away with no cost.

7. QR Code takes user to url for
LibGuide on that subject.

9. QR Code takes user to url for list of new library materials.

15. QR takes user to url for the journal holdings list to access
online journals.

17. • Readable by mobile devices with a camera and a QR Code
Reader
• Smartphones
• Mobile phones with a camera
• Tablets with a camera
• Webcams
• Open the Reader app or software, point it at the QR Code just
like you are taking a photo and it will read it instantly.

18. Mobile Devices
Browse your app store or market for a
“qr code reader.”
Many are available free, some cost money.
Examples:
iOS – Qrafter, Optiscan, NeoReader
BlackBerry – ScanLife, BeeTagg
Android - QuickMark, ScanLife

21. Easy to create with an app for a mobile device or through an
online generator.
Examples of free online generators:
Kaywa http://qrcode.kaywa.com/
Zxing Project http://zxing.appspot.com/generator/
Maestro http://www.sparqcode.com/static/maestro
Online QR Lab http://www.onlineqrlab.com/

23. Some generators (usually the paid ones) track statistics.
At Logan, we use Google url shortener and track clicks for our QR
Codes that contain urls.
• Create an Google account, or login with an existing account.
• Go to goo.gl
• Shorten the url.
• Google automatically creates a QR Code image.

26. Have a QR Code tutorial or explanatory section available for
those that are new to QR Codes.
Indicate the url for those QR Codes that point to
websites for those that do not have readers.
Do not use proprietary generators that require specific
readers.

27. Current issue of an online journal
Instructions on how to use copiers
At front of library with a map of the spaces
Points to chat reference, put QR Codes around study areas
Shelf signs for reading suggestions. “If you like this author, you
may like….”
Bookmarks with code leading to library webpage or hours
Link to library survey or suggestion form

28. Scan code to enter a trivia contest
QR Code leads to a sign up form for study rooms
Accessing eBooks
Shelf sign to read book reviews about displayed books
Notice to renew online at checkout stations
Link to mobile catalog at the catalog computer desktop stations
Create a scavenger hunt where users have to follow clues from
each scan.

29. http://gbslibrary.blogspot.com/2010/09/qr-codes-in-libraries.html

30. http://inbriefonline.wordpress.com/2011/02/16/do-you-know-the-qr-code-for-research-help/

31. http://kraftylibrarian.com/

32. http://www.lib.muohio.edu/?nomobi=1

33. Source: http://socialtimes.com/files/2010/09/BoardwalkEmpireQR2.jpg
Source: http://2d-code.co.uk/charlie-sheen-qr-code/

41. Official QR Code Standards Site.
http://www.denso-wave.com/qrcode/index-e.html
QR Code.com 2010. Denso Wave Inc. About QR Code.com.
7 Things You Should Know About QR Codes.
http://net.educause.edu/ir/library/pdf/ELI7046.pdf
QR Codes and Academic Libraries. Robin Ashford.
http://crln.acrl.org/content/71/10/526.ful