At Dalhousie Libraries, we like to play with innovative technology. Right now we’re placing QR codes in key spots to help you find what you’re looking for, using your smartphone.

QR (Quick Response) codes are barcodes that you scan with your mobile phone or laptop computer. When you scan a QR code, a web page will open directing you to more information on the service you’re looking for. Originally developed by Toyota in 1994 to help them track vehicle parts, these pixelated squares have all kinds of uses. For example, if you’re trying to book a study room in the Killam or Kellogg library, take a photo with your iPhone or Blackberry’s QR Reader to see if the room is available and book it on the spot. The recent launch of iPad 2, with its excellent choice of e-readers and snappy new built-in camera, inspired us to start adding QR codes to books in the Killam which we also have in digital form.

Look for QR codes:

• on the Study Room doors at Killam and Kellogg
• at the Killam and Sexton Reference Desks
• on the Floorplans board across from the Killam Ref Desk
• on the Killam LC at a Glance signs
• on the covers of random books on the Killam shelves

To scan a QR code, download a QR reader. We recommend i-nigma for your iPhone, but there are many different QR apps for whatever mobile device you use. Try these codes for yourself and see how they work!

Scan this code to book a room in the Kellogg Library

Scan this code to see available computers in the Killam Library

The possibilities for using QR codes are limited only by your imagination. How about posting a code for library hours on residence bulletin boards? Or a code for the Chemistry Subject Guide right in the Chemistry Department? Do you have any suggestions on what Dal Libraries QR codes you might find useful? Reply to this post and let us know. We’re waiting to see what ideas you have!