Abbreviated as AR,  augmented reality is the use of technology to overlay digital information on an image of something being viewed through a device (eg. through a smartphone camera).  This video gives you a quick introduction to some of its potential.   Perhaps you’ve heard about a recent example,  Google Glasses  are location aware, computerised eyeglasses  that will display information to the side of what you’re viewing.  There are quite a few AR applications that could be employed in library environments and in this Thing we’d like you to explore some of the possibilities:

DISCOVER:

• A video giving you an overview of five augmented reality apps  including Word Lens for on the spot translations [iOS version and Android version available].
• Some collection materials may include AR features (eg. customer uses an AR app to access the digital content in Applied Arts Magazine)  while GUP, the Guide to Unique Photography, has also enhanced an issue with Layar
• Most augmented reality apps use GPS to locate themselves in specific environments.  Some examples:
  • New York, USA: points of interest in Pittsburgh and New York City detailing the art, life and death of Andy Warhol
  • Victoria, Australia: Find craft collections
  • Singapore: the Singapore Tourism AR app will help you find the nearest ATM bank machine as well as the train and tram stops

EXPLORE: 

• How to use Aurasma by Gideon Williams
• The AR features of the LibraryThing Local app which uses Layar  and a blog post about it.
• What can libraries do with AR? There are two technologies in use in a number of locations: Layar and Aurasma.  Here are some ideas for using Aurasma in libraries  from Anthony Humphries.
• Find more links on our Pinterest board

THINKING POINTS: 

• Could the wayfinding in your library environment be improved with AR? Would an information literacy guided tour of your library be improved by including AR technology?
• Could you use an AR app like Lookator to make it easy for students to find the wifi hotspots on campus?
• Is there complex equipment in your library? Perhaps a video demonstration could provide assistance to customers if it were available at the point of need via AR?
• Do you serve clients from different language backgrounds?  Could you create an AR guide in their preferred language to help them orient to the library environment and services?
• Are you engaging with your community to plan a new library space?  Could you let them move the furniture around using an AR app like Augment [iOS version and Android  version]?
• Could you overlay local history film and audio clips into your local environment using an AR app?
• What would your summer reading club be like if you incorporated AR features?