New at Naperville Public Library: QR codes and shelf talkers
By Susan Greenwood www.naperville-lib.org November 14, 2012 6:34PM
Updated: December 19, 2012 10:46AM
I confess — I’m addicted to books! I usually have two or three books “going” at once. I read, I listen, I lug books on vacation. And the truth is, I’m always on the look-out for even more good reads. Thank goodness the Naperville Public Library has so many ways to help!
Two of these ways are new: QR codes on book covers and shelf talkers. They are now being piloted at the Naper Boulevard and Nichols Library buildings.
For those of you who love series, the QR codes are an enormous help. These are on large, white stickers that are clearly visible on the right corner of the book cover. A QR code is on the bottom (that strange design of blocks and spaces) and right above this is a number that indicates the title’s order in a series. If you have a smartphone and can read QR codes, there’s even more help. Click on the code, and you’ll get all sorts of information about the current title, the series and even the author.
While QR codes help with series, shelf talkers offer with advice and other ideas. Looking for something different in non-fiction? There’s a shelf talker that directs you to “Zero: the Biography of a Dangerous Idea.” Really love Michael Connelly’ s mysteries and his detective Harry Bosch but have read all the titles? A shelf talker will direct you to other authors.
Of course, possibly the best way to manage book addiction is to talk with a library staff member. They can help with all sorts of questions, including helping you with the new e-reader you got as a gift. Another great idea is to cozy up to a specific staff member and talk with them about what you’re reading and ask about what they suggest. After a chat, they might even be able to tell you if you’d actually like that “hot” new title everyone is talking about or if you should just shift to another title on your list.
After all, so many books, so little time. Why waste time with something that’s not wonderful?
And while you’re talking, do let them know how you feel about the new shelf talkers and QR code stickers.
Susan Greenwood is the community relations coordinator at the Naperville Public Library. Contact her at 630-961-4100, ext. 2223, or greenwood@naperville-lib.org.
