This document discusses how libraries can use QR codes to connect physical materials like books to digital content online. It provides examples of using QR codes to link to library websites, videos, databases and other online resources optimized for mobile access. It also discusses different free online tools that can be used to create QR codes and embed them in physical signs, books, and materials in the library.

1. Successfully Using QR Codes in LibrariesConnecting our shelves with electronic contentCheryl Burnette, WebmasterHomewood Public LibraryHomewoodPublicLibrary.orgcburnette@bham.lib.al.us205.332.6631

2. Video: How to use QR codeswww.cnet.com.au/how-to-use-qr-codes-339302140.htm

3. About QR (quick response) codes2D barcodes originally created by Japanese company Denso-Wave in 1994 to keep inventory

4. Because scanning requires less effort than typing a URL, QR codes are becoming mainstream

5. In a nutshell, install a QR Reader on your phone, take a photo of the code, and be quickly directed from something physical to something digital!A Few Stats14 million US mobile phone users scanned QR codes or barcodes in June 2011…

6. …mostly via newspapers, magazines and product packaging, both at home and in-store

7. Barcodes that offer a discount or coupon, or allow the consumer to learn more about a product or service are the most popularMashable, August 2011

8. Get a free QR code readerDownload and install a QR code reader that is compatible with your phone. Many are free, so there’s no need to purchase one: RedLaser, BeeTagg, NeoReader, and others.

9. QR codes are used to:Connect to a mobile website

10. Watch a video

11. Send an SMS (text) message

12. Make a phone call

13. Embed contact info on a business card

14. Embed text (i.e. scavenger hunt)

15. Map an address

16. Send emailhttp://www.flickr.com/photos/23148333@N06/4947612409

19. Two rules for creating QR codes1. If URL, must lead to a mobile optimized site2. Use a URL shortener when possible to reduce the volume of data convertedhttp://bit.ly/oIKgRPhttp://www.pla.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/booklistsawards/alexawards/alexawards.cfm

20. Create your own QR codes forfreeKimtagkimtag.comkimtag.com/homewoodlibraryPros Easy setup/simple interface

21. Hub, or landing page, is mobile optimized Stats are included

22. Links are editable! That’s dynamic!

23. can add your own logo and link icons Large QR code is 595X595 pixelsCons Only shortens URLsCreate your own QR codes for freeBitlybitly.combitly.com/u/weknowbooksetcPros Recommend for single URLs only* (see Cons)

24. Sign in with Twitter or Facebook

25. Shorten and share links

26. Click Info Page to find your QR code & stats

27. Detailed statsCons *Bitly Bundles are NOT mobile optimized! Do not use the QR code that leads to the Bundle!

28. Bitly links are not editable

29. Only shortens URLs

30. Largest size QR code is 249X249 pixelsCreate your own QR codes for freeinvxinvx.com Creates huge QR codes URLs

31. email