ISSN: 2474-3542 Journal homepage: http://journal.calaijol.org

Mobile Apps–Based Applications in Libraries and
Information Centers: A Systematic Review of the Literature
and Future Research Agendas
B. P. Singh and Margam Madhusudhan

Abstract:
Due to the worldwide rapid adoption of mobile-based applications in libraries to foster the
delivery of information services on mobile devices of library users, there are vast and
growing collections of peer-reviewed research and conference papers available in various
online databases. Analyzing the literature related to mobile-based library services is one
method to conduct future research to enhance library collections and services in the digital
age. The primary goal of this paper is to review the most relevant literature in the field to
better understand these previous research works, identify trends and to determine the
research gaps for future studies. A comprehensive and systematic review of the literature
on mobile-based applications in libraries and information centers of peer-reviewed research
papers, and conference proceedings published in online databases (ProQuest-LISA and
Web of Science) during the last seven years (2015–2022) was conducted for critical
analysis and to address the present trends of mobile-based applications in these studies. We
identified that many studies have described the use of mobile apps–based applications like
Mobile Online Public Access Catalogue (MOPAC), Mobile websites, Mobile databases,
WhatsApp, SMS, RSS, and Quick Response (QR) Codes in the enhancement of library
collections and services around the globe. We observed that 75.93% of documents were
published as research articles, and 42.59% of publications were identified under the two
authorship patterns. Also, the authors investigated the current and future state of the
research in this field by synthesizing the results of published high-quality experimental
studies and systematic mapping studies on related disciplines. We hope that this study will
be helpful for librarians and information professionals to better understand and implement
the applications of mobile technologies for enhancement of library collections and services
in the virtual world.
To cite this article:
Singh, B. P. & Madhusudhan, M. (2023). Mobile apps–based applications in libraries and
information centers: A systematic review of the literature and future research agendas.
International Journal of Librarianship, 8(3), 83-102.
https://doi.org/10.23974/ijol.2023.vol8.3.294

To submit your article to this journal:
Go to https://ojs.calaijol.org/index.php/ijol/about/submissions

https://doi.org/10.23974/ijol.2023.vol8.3.294
https://ojs.calaijol.org/index.php/ijol/about/submissions

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LIBRARIANSHIP, 8(3), 83-102.

ISSN: 2474-3542

Mobile Apps–Based Applications in Libraries and Information
Centers: A Systematic Review of the Literature and Future

Research Agendas

B. P. Singh1, AYUSH Central Library, Dayalbagh Educational Institute, Agra, India
Margam Madhusudhan, University of Delhi, Delhi, India

ABSTRACT

Due to the worldwide rapid adoption of mobile-based applications in libraries to foster the
delivery of information services on mobile devices of library users, there are vast and growing
collections of peer-reviewed research and conference papers available in various online
databases. Analyzing the literature related to mobile-based library services is one method to
conduct future research to enhance library collections and services in the digital age. The
primary goal of this paper is to review the most relevant literature in the field to better
understand these previous research works, identify trends and to determine the research gaps for
future studies. A comprehensive and systematic review of the literature on mobile-based
applications in libraries and information centres of peer-reviewed research papers, and
conference proceedings published in online databases (ProQuest-LISA and Web of Science)
during the last seven years (2015–2022) was conducted for critical analysis and to address the
present trends of mobile-based applications in these studies. We identified that many studies
have described the use of mobile apps–based applications like Mobile Online Public Access
Catalogue (MOPAC), Mobile websites, Mobile databases, WhatsApp, SMS, RSS, and Quick
Response (QR) Codes in the enhancement of library collections and services around the globe.
We observed that 75.93% of documents were published as research articles, and 42.59% of
publications were identified under the two authorship patterns. Also, the authors investigated the
current and future state of the research in this field by synthesizing the results of published high-
quality experimental studies and systematic mapping studies on related disciplines. We hope that
this study will be helpful for librarians and information professionals to better understand and
implement the applications of mobile technologies for enhancement of library collections and
services in the virtual world.
Keywords: Libraries, Mobile apps, WhatsApp-Based services, Mobile library services,
Smartphone, Mobile library websites, MOPAC, Review of literature, QR codes

1Corresponding author

Singh and Madhusudhan / International Journal of Librarianship 8(3)

INTRODUCTION

The mobile app is known as a short form of “mobile software application.” Mobile applications
or “apps” became available to download on a mobile device in 2008 (Donker et al., 2013). Since
then, their use has increased rapidly, and it is anticipated to continue rising in the mobile world.
As of June 2022, an estimated 2.65 million apps are available on the Google play store, but
library-related apps are limited to the enhancement of library services in the virtual world.
Mobile-based applications in libraries help provide e-information services to users on their
mobile devices. These services can comprise two categories: the first is those traditional library
services modified to be available via mobile devices, and the second is those created for mobile
devices. To provide remote access to library collections and services on users' mobile devices,
mobile technologies have become authoritative for libraries and information canters. Mobile
device companies and computer scientists define “mobile apps” differently. A significant and
straightforward definition is “A small application that runs on a Smartphone and a tablet is called
the app” (J. Han et al., 2020).

The mobile applications for libraries look similar to library automation in the late 1980s
and early 1990s. When computer applications were introduced into the library system in a few
library operations like acquisition, circulation, and serials management, OPAC was implemented
as isolated computer applications for libraries. Various app development tools and mobile
technologies are currently used to develop mobile apps for different operating systems such as
Android and Windows. For Android app development, mostly JavaScript was used, while Apple
apps are typically developed using the X-code and deployed to iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad.

A review of the literature is a pathway to conducting future research in a related area.
Fostering the growth of mobile applications for enhancement of library collections and services
spans various mobile-based applications in libraries and their operational practices. The latest
research and practical examples are evaluating and optimizing library websites, collections, and
services for mobile access anywhere, anytime over the networks. The flowchart of the systematic
review of the literature is shown in below Figure 1.

Singh and Madhusudhan / International Journal of Librarianship 8(3)

Figure 1

Flowchart of Review of Literature

OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The objective of the study is to present a comprehensive review of the literature on the type of
mobile applications reported in libraries and information canters. The review also aims to assess
the quality of the reviewed studies and current research trends. The other objectives of this study
are as follows:

1. The primary objective of the study is to systematically review the available literature in
areas of mobile-based application in libraries to identify the current trends of research in
across the globe.

2. To find out which mobile-based applications and services have been reported so far in
libraries.

3. To observe the available publication types where the most literature was published on
mobile-based applications in libraries.

4. To find out the preferred document type, authorship pattern, and growth of publications
in the last seven years in the area of mobile-based services in libraries.

5. To determine the research gap and future research agendas in the study area through
depth analysis of the available literature.

Singh and Madhusudhan / International Journal of Librarianship 8(3)

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

The process of a systematic review of the literature and the methodology adopted have been
discussed in a standard format. A total of 51 documents (excluding websites) published in the
last seven years (2015-2022) were considered for the comprehensive review and analysis. These
documents included research articles, conference proceedings, and books chapters. All the
documents have been retrieved through the databases Web of Science, LISA, and Scopus. The
literature has been included through observation and depth analysis of content of the available
literature. The methodology of this systematic literature review is presented in Figure 1 as a
flowchart. Many articles were published on mobile technology applications in library services,
but the scope of this systematic review study is limited to covering ten specific areas of selected
studies containing the following: (1) app-based applications in libraries, (2) mobile-based
applications in libraries, (3) mobile apps, (4) applications of WhatsApp in libraries, (5)
Application of smartphones in libraries, (6) quick response (QR) codes in libraries, (7) SMS-
based library services, (8) mobile websites in libraries, (9) mobile databases in libraries, (10)
mobile technologies in libraries.

REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

To conduct a systematic review of the literature, the first step is to collect all the publications
from the selected sources (databases). These publications were identified by searching the
ProQuest-LISA, Web of Science, and Scopus. The search strings used during these searches
were “mobile applications in libraries,” “mobile library websites,” “use of WhatsApp in library
services,” “MOPAC,” “mobile databases,” “QR code applications in libraries” and “apps-based
applications” and “use of mobile applications in libraries.” The above-mentioned databases and
journals were selected as being the latest and most relevant sources.

There are many peer-reviewed research papers existing on various facets related to
mobile technology applications for the enhancement of library collections and services. The
scope of this study is limited to peer-reviewed articles and research papers, which were
published in various reputable international and national journals by Indian and foreign authors
during the last seven years. The reviewed articles are focused on comprehensive reports, which
were published worldwide, keeping in view the seminal results coming out of the relationship
between mobile technologies and modern libraries. The review of relevant articles and research
papers are presented below.

Mobile Library Services

Madhusudhan & Dar (2017) explored the “mobile library services initiated and adopted by
university libraries for quickly mobilizing the library services as a new way to information
delivery.” Saravani & Haddow (2017) interviewed 42 library professionals and analyzed the
level of awareness and skill requirements for implementing mobile technology (m-tech)
advancements in libraries. The researchers found high awareness of the impact of m-tech
applications on library services and noticed major factors to accepting m-tech on both the
organizational and individual levels. Kubat (2017) examined the survey results of the future of
mobile applications in university libraries in Turkey. He noted that Turkish university libraries

Singh and Madhusudhan / International Journal of Librarianship 8(3)

used a comparable level of mobile technology to offer mobile library services, like short
messaging services (SMS), mobile device-enabled services, mobile websites, mobile library
catalogues, chatboxes, consultations through instant messaging, mobile augmented reality,QR
code applications, etc.

In his study, Singh (2018) focused on mobile-oriented library services, including a
mobile app, library app, mobile library website, MOPAC, and mobile databases. It has been
found that 72.34% of Central University Libraries (CUL) in India provide a mobile OPAC,
74.47% of CUL provide digital repository services and only 23.40% of CUL provide mobile
services to users over the networks.

Dar (2019) concentrated on the initiatives of mobile library understanding among
different categories of students. He showed that a large number of students agreed to adopt
mobile library services as new initiatives for instant accessibility of their daily informational
needs. This study focuses on innovative services with Web-based library services and moves into
mobile library services. Mansouri & Soleymani (2019) observed that services such as searching
databases, renewing/reservation of reading materials, circulation, mobile reference service, ask a
librarian, library tours and instructions were frequently used by the users in academic libraries
while the services of search, search using barcode scanners and databases were mostly used in
public libraries.

Ocran, Underwood & Arthur (2020) proposed strategies for implementing mobile
applications in library services. They investigated the preparedness of the library to implement
mobile library services at the University of Cape Coast. They presented a positive perception
regarding the implementation of mobile library services for enhancement of library collections
and services. This study showed that most students had at least one mobile device used for 24/7
online access to library services. They also recommended that library professionals be highly
trained in implementing mobile technology in their libraries.

Yi, Barun & Donghun (2022) proposed a model for mobile curation services in academic
libraries. They discussed the development of mobile library services with the key modules as
prototype curation services like My Page, My Log services, SMS notifications and live chat for
the academic libraries. They described the concept of content curation using mobile technologies
to fulfill the users’ information needs.

St. Patrick’s Duncan (2021) discussed the mobile library services which were provided
for students' daily information needs at the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus. He
highlighted that mobile library services are available with the touch of a fingertip. In this study,
the author also explored mobile services to enhance the usage of library collections and services,
as well as best practices for implementing mobile library services in academic libraries

Mobile Library Apps

Maideen (2017) focused on the various kinds of software and apps used as mobile technology in
libraries. Sharma and Madhusudhan (2017) discussed how mobile devices are being used by
library science students and librarians.

Jumah & Dar (2019) conducted a study to access e-information resources on mobile
devices in Kuwait. This study explored the academic library user needs for mobile-based library
services and the technical competence of library professionals to provide services “on the go.”

Singh and Madhusudhan / International Journal of Librarianship 8(3)

Digital services are rendered through digital platforms via mobile applications. Izuagbe, Ifijeh &
Ilo (2021) identify digital platforms for library services as Telegram, WhatsApp, YouTube,
Zoom, Messenger, and Google classroom. In line with this, Nasir (2020) reported that academic
libraries in Malaysia render digital services through chat services (library WhatsApp group).
Swogger & Linares (2016) defined the inherent challenges in their study of BrowZine to the
development and marketing of mobile apps to library users.

Canuel & Crichton (2015) describe leveraging apps for research and learning in their
study. They offer wonderful opportunities to engage researchers and students with information
access in new ways with the mobile app anywhere and anytime. This survey study well-
explained that academic libraries smoothly implemented and promoted mobile apps for
collection development in an economical and efficient manner.

Ali & Asl (2019) focused on mobile application components for the set up and
development of mobile-based library services. They also investigated the essential components
required to develop a mobile app to deliver library services on users’ mobile devices.
Additionally, they found that mobile-based library services such as SMS notifications e-mail
alerts, ask-a-librarian, information searching, databases, renewing/reserving books, automatic
circulation of books through barcode/QR code scanners and e-document delivery, etc. were
essential services to provide proactive library services on the users’ mobile devices in all types of
libraries.

Kesselman (2022) discovered the best mobile applications that are useful to develop an
innovative future-forward way that supports library services. He suggested iOS and Android
mobile applications in libraries for creativity and innovation for mobile services. Kaddipujar;
Jacob & Kumbar (2022) examined app Inventor for Android mobile app development using the
drag-and-drop approach for the library at Raman Research Institute. The researchers explore the
MIT App Inventor with salient features for implementing and developing apps by librarians for
their libraries. This MIT inverter-generated app helps libraries to extend their mobile-based
services to its users. Ajab Mohideen, Sheikh & Kaur (2022) designed and developed a mobile
app for library services using open-source software. This mobile app was developed using the
Koha (an open-source library information system) and tested it through user acceptance tests and
system acceptance tests by experts who observed that it is properly operational, accessible, and
useful for libraries. The major features of this app were circulation, an Online Public Access
Catalog (OPAC) search, patrons’ personal book collections, patron accounts, librarian chat, book
borrowing using QR codes, social media integration, and SMS notifications of library activities,
etc.

Chautula, Harvey & Mutula (2018) studied library and information services using mobile
applications in public university libraries in Malawi. They found that only one library offered
library services using mobile phones. In the university libraries, reference services were provided
by mobile phones, as were e-journal access, Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC),
WhatsApp, and SMS notifications. The authors describe the practical implications of mobile
applications as a tool for prototype models for planning and implementation of library and
information services using mobile phones in the digital world.

Central Library IIT Delhi (2023) explored and implemented mobile technologies to
provide library services to the users through a mobile app on their mobile devises. These mobile-

Singh and Madhusudhan / International Journal of Librarianship 8(3)

based library services are a faster way to receive a response to simple questions that can be
answered 24x7.

WhatsApp Applications in Libraries

Chaputula, Abdullah & Brave (2020) surveyed the use of WhatsApp and social media in
academic libraries at Mzuzu University Library, Malawi. This study was conducted using semi-
structured interviews with five library staff/librarians that worked in the reference section and
implemented WhatsApp-based services in their libraries to deliver information from mobile
devices. He observed that WhatsApp has been successfully used to instantly provide reference
services to students and research scholars. He has analyzed several technical and service-related
challenges that adversely affect the instant delivery of services to users. The authors have
recommended that WhatsApp applications to instantly supply information in an efficient way for
mobile devices of users at a minimal cost.

Ansari & Tripathi (2017) conducted a study on the use of WhatsApp in library and
information services. In this study, they indicated that users showed a positive attitude to getting
library services (SMS notifications, service information, virtual reference service, and audio-
video content, etc.) over WhatsApp. A total of 91.04% of users showed interest in using
WhatsApp for library services. They also observed that libraries can deliver various services over
WhatsApp for better satisfaction and enhanced usage of library collections and services. Guo,
Lam, Chiu & Ho (2022) explained the WhatsApp-based reference service and user satisfaction in
a major academic library in Hong Kong. This study adapted the questionnaire instrument to
investigate relationships between library services and users. The authors observed various
opinions toward using reference services and preferred methods, including irregularity between
users' frequently used methods and preferred methods.

Tung Wah College (2022) explored that library staff used WhatsApp for reference
services, sharing of documents and instant replies to users’ questions during library hours. The
service is highly used for quick and simple questions that can be answered in a short reply.

Smartphone Applications in Libraries

Al-Sadiq (2015) describes the possibility of using smartphone applications and QR codes in
information institutions. The researcher dealt with the benefits of smartphones and their potential
if used with QR codes. Then she pointed out the need to use this technology in providing library
services and indicated how to use it efficiently. In his study, Ebiye (2015) investigated the
impact of smartphones and tablets on the information-seeking behaviour of students and staff in
Bayelsa State, Nigeria. He has noticed that smartphones and tablets have made a deep impact on
their education, especially concerning easy Internet access, quick browsing, saving time and
cost-effectiveness for teaching and e-learning materials/e-books. Elahi et al (2016) discussed
smartphone implications in educational environments. In this study, they identified the services
that are possible to deliver using smartphone applications, including mobile-based library
services. Sambo, Lawal & Helen (2021) examined the use of smartphones for information-
seeking in Nigerian universities and found that Apple iOS was the most highly used smartphones
for information-seeking and retrieval by undergraduate students followed by Google Android,
Windows’ Blackberry, open WebOS, MeeGo, Symbian and others. Also, the authors discovered
that “factors affecting the use of smartphones for information-seeking by undergraduate students

Singh and Madhusudhan / International Journal of Librarianship 8(3)

include a poor battery, high rate of theft on campus, lack of technical experts on repairs when
faulty within the campus, high cost of data subscription/Internet access.” Zahr (2021) explained
the utility of smartphone applications for libraries rendering academic library services.

Applications of Mobile Technologies in Libraries:

Ward, Hahn & Mestre (2015) explored that potential students are interested in mobile
applications for instant access to library services, as well as assessing the e-resources for
academic and research activities. Rajasekhar & Sasikala (2018) observed that, “mobile
applications could support learning processes by making library resources everywhere at the
same time, by bringing new users to the library through increased accessibility to the resources
libraries offer, and by creating a new way to enhance connections between users and libraries.”
Johnson Dei (2020) studied the adoption and implementation of mobile technologies in the
delivery of library services in academic libraries. He observed a “strong awareness and
appreciation of mobile technology–based library services among the students and library staff.”
The main reason for using mobile technology is the absence of physical presence, making it
easier to use. The sample respondents 174 (43.50%) strongly agreed, and 161 (40.25%)
respondents from the selected study area agreed that they were using mobile technology services
for academic and research purposes. Significantly few respondents disagreed,20 (5%), and with
12 (3%) strongly disagreed. 33 (8.25%) were neutral. These results are similar to the findings of
the studies of Acheampong & Agyemang (2021).

Acheampong & Dei (2020) discussed the rapid growth in the usage of mobile devices,
mobile broadband availability, and wi-fi connectivity in most academic libraries in Ghana. They
effectively deliver m-tech-based library services to users on their mobile devices (smartphones,
tablets, PDA's, iPod and e-book readers, etc). The researchers noticed that continued training and
ICT skills are an essential need for staff due to the lack of trained staff for the adoption of m-tech
in library services. Jakati & Kumar (2022) describe the mobile applications in libraries for
fostering the delivery of information resources and services over networks. They pointed out the
benefits of mobile applications in mobile libraries. Ajibade, Patrick (2022) opened mobile-
responsive digital repositories and present an examination of the open access approach of
institutional research output over mobile devices. The authors observed that almost all
academic libraries use open-source software to develop mobile-accessible institutional
repositories.

Mobile Applications in Libraries

Gunjal & Gaffar (2019) surveyed on awareness, accessibility and usage aspects of mobile
applications in the library among the users of NIT, Rourkela. This study describes the awareness
and purpose of accessibility, and the usage of library resources and services using mobile
applications. Dinazzah & Rahmi (2022) conducted a study on mobile library applications in
Indonesia's digital libraries using a descriptive and qualitative methodology to analyze the
development of m-library apps in Indonesia. They found that Indonesia's digital libraries are in
the progressive stage and libraries use mobile applications in their digital libraries. Researchers
also found that mobile applications in all mostly- digital libraries in Indonesia are designed and
developed by third-party vendors.

Singh and Madhusudhan / International Journal of Librarianship 8(3)

Mobile SMS-Based Library Services

Since the beginning of the 21st century, mobile technologies have supported mobile learning in
different formats. In the mobile learning context, the most popular and stable mobile technology,
“Short Message Service” (SMS) is used to send text messages on cellular phones to update users.
Through mobile applications, text messaging is a cost-effective platform. Maghribi, Osman &
Zainal (2017) presented a few insights to set up and implement a web-based system with Mobile
SMS technology to enhance library services. This web-based system helped the library
professionals to notify the library patrons through SMS notification to inform patrons about the
current status of check-out/in of books, due date and reservation of books. They focused on the
integration of web-based and mobile SMS in library services to enhance the work productivity
and efficiency of library staff. The researchers highlighted that the delivery of SMS-based library
services using mobile applications is highly beneficial for users in a cost-effective manner.

Khanim & Ahmed (2018) explore the possibility of implementing mobile SMS
technology to improve the delivery of information services in academic libraries. This study was
conducted to examine the library notification service for users in the University of Malay
Library. They found a large number of weaknesses in the existing e-mail notification system and
the essential need to implement SMS notifications for information updates regarding library
services. A total of 72% of respondents face problems with notifications related to the return of
books. This study also revealed that the majority of users demanded to improvements in the
library notification service using mobile SMS-based notification systems in the University of
Malaya Library. The authors suggested enhancement of library reference services via
implementing Multimedia Messaging Services (MMS) and live chatting over mobile devices in
the near future.

Mobile Library Websites

Becker (2015) defined comprehensive goals for the setup and development of a mobile library
website. He explained the common goals of accessibility & discovery of e-resources, enhancing
the usage of reference services, accessing patron information, information literacy, audio video
tours for patrons, supporting off-campus accessibility through mobile initiatives, delivery of e-
resources and raising the profile of the library as well as their working staff. Anbu K & Kataria
(2015) presented a model for designing and testing mobile library websites’ remote access to
library e-resources and services.

Mobile Databases in Libraries

April & Rachel (2015) studied the use and compatibility of the mobile accessible database of e-
resources at Adelphi University libraries in 2015 and observed that 28% of the library services
were appropriate and effective for mobile use. Beg, Khan & Anjum (2022) conducted a
systematic review of literature on data usages issues in mobile apps and they examined “the
authors proposed three main thematic taxonomies, including architectural style, security and
privacy strategies, and user-usages in the mobile app recommendation domain”. In this study, the
researchers suggested a set of future research to investigate and development of mobile app–
based databases in the higher education and emerging research domain.

Singh and Madhusudhan / International Journal of Librarianship 8(3)

Applications of Quick Response (QR) Codes in Libraries

Viktoriya (2020) describes the applications of QR codes in libraries for the marketing of library
services and products. He has explored the QR codes in two categories: dynamic and static for
several uses. He noted that the prospect of QR-coding technology as a type of mobile service in
libraries from the point of view as a cost-effective digital marketing means of communication is
substantiated around the globe. Kadli (2020) discussed that QR Codes play a vital role in shaping
and delivering different types of library services with mobile applications. He has focused on QR
codes and their applications for enhancement of library services and explored the advantages
(speed, accuracy, quality, and cost-effectiveness) of QR Code technology in the delivery of
library services. In his study Bondarenko (2020) reviewed and analyzed the literature on QR-
coding technology in domestic and foreign e-resources. He found the possibility of providing
information services via QR codes in the libraries. He highlighted the advantages of QR-code
technology in libraries, mainly which are easily used and cost-effective due to it being freely
available on the Internet. Madzidon & Harun (2022) designed a library borrowing system using a
QR Code for enhancement of library services. This QR code requires unique authentication via a
registered username and password, and it will be implemented by the librarians and
administrators for the users. This system was designed to make borrowing books easier and helps
librarians/administrators to track the usage of library resources and services. Kharat, Nagarkar
& Panage (2022) conducted a study on the implementation of QR code technology in MBA
College and Institute Libraries affiliated with Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune and Pimpri
Chinchwad. The researchers observed that QR codes will be more popular in the future due to
their effectiveness and library users will prefer to easily scan the QR code multiple times. Singh
(2015) explained that the QR code is a powerful tool for the promotion and enhancement of the
usage of library products and services with mobile devices. He suggested that every library
design a QR code for the library website and other services to be easily accessible.

FINDINGS FROM REVIEWS

Through a comprehensive literature review of a select 54 articles, chapters and websites, we
present the findings in descriptive form using R in different tables as displayed below.

Type of Reviewed Publication Sources

Table 1 presents the distinct types of the select documents used for the review study. Five (5)
types of documents were identified where 41 (75.93%) of them were research articles from
journals, 3 (5.6%) were conference papers, 5 (9.3%) were book chapters, 2 (3.70%) were books
and 3 (5.6%) were library websites.

Singh and Madhusudhan / International Journal of Librarianship 8(3)

Table 1

Type of Reviewed Publications (N=54)

Figure 2 depicts the publication type-wise distribution of the reviewed articles. Most

papers were published as research articles in reputable journals, followed by ProQuest-LISA
databases.

Figure 2
Type of Reviewed Publication Sources

Authorship Pattern of Reviewed Publications

Table 2 summarizes different types of authorship patterns for all selected publications. Four
authorship types were identified, where the highest (42.59%) numbers of publications were
identified as having two authors, 27.78% of publications had single authors, and 7.41%
publications had under four authors.

Document Type Total No & Frequency 54 (100%)

Research Articles 41 (75.93)
Book Chapters 5 (9.3)
Conference Papers 3 (5.6)
Books 2 (3.70)
Websites 3 (5.6)

Singh and Madhusudhan / International Journal of Librarianship 8(3)

Table 2

Authorship Pattern

Authorship Pattern of Publications (N=51)
S.No. Number of Authors

in a Publication
Number of

Publications (%)
1. 1 15 (27.78)
2. 2 23 (42.59)
3. 3 9 (16.67)
4. 4 4 (7.41)

Total publications (Excluding
Websites)

51(100)

Distribution Timeline of Reviewed Publications

Table 3 presents the yearly distribution of the reviewed publications/articles with their
percentage. It was noticed that most of the searched publications were from the years 2022,
2015, 2020, 2017, 2021, 2019, 2018 and 2016. Figure 3 depicts the yearly publication
distribution of the articles. Most research articles were published in Emerald database journals,
followed by conference papers related to Computer Science, Library and Information Sciences.

Table 3

Distribution Timeline of Reviewed Publications

Year Total No. of Reviewed Publications Percentage (%)

2022 11 21.57
2021 6 11.76
2020 7 13.72
2019 6 11.76
2018 4 7.84
2017 7 13.72
2016 2 3.92
2015 8 15.69

Figure 3 shows the distribution timeline of the reviewed publications used for the study.
It has been observed that most of the publications were from the years 2022, 2021, 2020, 2017
and 2016.

Singh and Madhusudhan / International Journal of Librarianship 8(3)

Figure 3

Distribution Timeline of Reviewed Publications

Figure 3 shows the distribution timeline of the reviewed publications for the study. It

indicates that the growth of publications in the select area of mobile-based applications in
libraries has decreased after 2017 up to 2021. There is a growth of publications after 2021. It is
worth mentioning here that 2019-2021 is the period of the COVID pandemic. The growth in
publications after 2021 shows that due to the impact of the COVID pandemic, libraries highly
used mobile based applications for enhancing library services.

Source of Reviewed Articles

Figure 4 shows that most of the considered articles under review were published in the journals
“Library Hi-Tech News” and “Library Philosophy and Practice,” followed by “DESIDOC
Journal of Library and Information Technology,” “The Electronic Library” and “Journal of
Academic Librarianship.”

Figure 4
Distribution of Articles in Different Journals

2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022

No of Publication Percentage

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4
5
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7
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Singh and Madhusudhan / International Journal of Librarianship 8(3)

DISCUSSION AND FUTURE RESEARCH AGENDAS

The above reviews show that much has to be done in incorporating the use of mobile-based
applications in the efficient and cost-effective and delivery of information services to enhance
the usage of library collections and services in libraries. Most of the studies present a key role of
mobile technologies in fostering library services and their significant role in reading in most
parts of the developing mobile world. The results of this study show that most (75.93%) of the
studies related to mobile applications in libraries measured the use of mobile-based library
services and were published as research articles in peer-reviewed international and national
journals. The study of Kesselman (2022) & Ajab Mohideen, Sheikh & Kaur (2022) reported the
best mobile applications for enhanced library services for faster delivery of information on users’
mobile devices through m-tech platforms.

Madhusudhan & Dar (2017) assert that the initiatives of mobile information services in
university libraries will be a boon to creating a cost-effective information superhighway for
enhancement of library collection and services worldwide. The rapid rise in mobile applications,
particularly in libraries and information centers, will enable information service administrators,
librarians, policymakers, scientists, academicians, and researchers to attain optimum use of
library resources over mobile networks. Similar use of mobile applications also reported by
previous studies by Saravani & Haddow (2017) & Ocran, Underwood & Arthur (2020) have
reported that mobile-based applications in libraries help to improve information searching and
mobilize library services.

This improved mobile access to information will make fostering open learning on the go
a new way to get a wider spectrum of users who desire and possess the ability to actively learn
using the mobile apps on their mobile devices (Acheampong & Agyemang, 2021). This study
investigates the challenges faces by library professionals to implement and use mobile apps in
libraries and represent the library without walls in the virtual environment. The study of Jakati &
Kumar (2022), Chaputula & Mutula (2018) & Singh (2018) have presented the mobile-based
applications for enhancement of library services and reported that a lack of support from
institutional authorities, lack of ICT skilled manpower and funds are major problems for
implementing mobile-based library services in libraries and information centers.

Due to the revolutionary growth in mobile technologies, new tools and techniques play a
vital role in delivering mobile library services to users around the globe. Mobile applications are
inevitable platforms of mobile communication. Currently, more and more changes in mobile
applications in libraries are shifting information delivery away from web-based services to
mobile-based services. Existing mobile-based library applications help to improve library
services inside and outside the library itself. Further, to enhance collections and services through
m-tech platforms, each library designs a mobile app to fulfil the users’ informational demands on
their mobile devices. The outcomes of this systematic review underscore and support the work of
all authors of selected studies to process future research concerning mobile applications in
libraries for enhancement of library services. We recommend thorough research on open-source
mobile applications for the enhancement of library services.

Singh and Madhusudhan / International Journal of Librarianship 8(3)

CONCLUSION

This study presents an in-depth analysis and explores the significance of available literature
through a systematic review on mobile app-based applications in libraries. In this study, the
authors mainly review the different theoretical and practical aspects of the implementation and
use of mobile apps, mobile websites, mobile databases, SMS-based services, mobile
technologies, and QR codes in libraries, including the best practices, standards and advances
related to mobile applications. From the perspective of fulfilling library users’ needs for instant
information on their mobile devices, library and information professionals are progressive in
implementing mobile and QR code technologies in their libraries. The reviews of these select
articles will not only guide librarians/library professionals to effectively and efficiently
implement mobile applications in their libraries, but also boost the theoretical and practical
approaches of mobile technologies and their implementation in libraries. Mobile-based
applications in libraries such as mobile apps, mobile websites, check-out & check-in of
documents, searching databases, SMS services, QR codes and enabling wi-fi Internet connection
will help the libraries to satisfy the users’ information needs and enhance library services and
products that will provide information accurately and instantly. The COVID pandemic has
forced researchers and libraries to find alternative ways of reaching remote users. Mobile
technologies along with the Internet have penetrated deep into our society. By embarking on
mobile and networking technologies, libraries can change the whole scenario of information
access and its use. The various studies reported in this review show sample opportunities for the
libraries to reach remote users and provide cost-effective services in a timely manner through
mobile applications. But a critical analysis of available technologies and dynamic user
behaviours by the libraries and information professionals is needed. Based on the covered
research studies, the authors noted the research gap for future research possibilities. Finally, the
authors suggested areas of future research directions that will be useful for potential and dynamic
researchers in the applications for e the enhancement of library services in the networking
environment. Therefore, more positive efforts are still needed in the development of apps-based
library services to put things in perspective in the mobile world. Future works will ensure the
enhancement of the usage of library collections and services in the respective libraries and
information centers.

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About the authors

B. P. Singh obtained his M.Sc. (Computer Science) from Maharishi Dayanand University,
Rohtak and pursuing PhD in Library and Information Science from University of Delhi, Delhi.
He has more than 18 years professional and administrative experience in reputed organizations.
Presently, he is working as a Faculty Librarian, AYUSH Central Library, Dayalbagh Educational
Institute (Deemed to be University), Agra. He has published 41 research papers and book
chapters in International/National journals and edited books. He was awarded various
international and national awards/fellowships like BI-International Grant-2018, IFLA
Scholarship-2019, ALA-ALCTS online Course Grant-2020, ALA-Core Online Course
Scholarship-2021, DRDO Cash Award- 2008 & 2010 and Innovative Librarian Award-2021. His
research interests include ICT Applications in Libraries, Mobile Library Services, Mobile Apps-
based Services, ETD Management, Research Support Services, Research Data Management and
Open Science. Email: bpsingh@dei.ac.in
Dr. Margam Madhusudhan is currently working as a Professor in the Department of Library and
Information Science, University of Delhi, Delhi. Under his supervision, 13 PhDs, 29 Master
students, and 170+ project reports have been awarded. He has published eight books and 175
publications, including 96 articles. He has completed one major research project for DRDO and
two minor projects. He has also awarded various International/National awards for his
outstanding academic and research contributions in Library and Information Science discipline.
His areas of interest include Designing and evaluating websites, Web-OPACs, ICT in libraries,
Social Networking Sites, e-Resources, Mobile-based Library Services, and Text mining. Email:
mmadhusudhan@libinfosci.du.ac.in

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