The Rapid City Public Libraries’ Strategic Planning and Marketing Workgroup has determined 2013 to be the “Year of the App”.

Since cell phones have evolved into smart phones, which are basically wireless mini-computers, the entire, “App Culture” has gone mainstream.

But before we can look at what that means for us at the library we need to define what an app is…

…and that’s a software application specifically designed to be used on a mobile, handheld device - first introduced in early 2007.

Another item to note is where you download apps, or app stores. There are different app stores that are compatible with their corresponding operating systems.

For example: Apple products’ apps are downloaded from the Apple App Store, apps for Android devices are downloaded from Google Play, and Kindle apps are downloaded from Amazon.

Half of all adults in the U.S. own a smartphone or tablet.

50% of adult cell phone owners have apps on their phones and on average have 18 apps downloaded to their device.

This chart shows the most popular types of apps: Games, News/Weather, Maps/Navigation, Social Networking, and Music.

(Chart represents % of downloaders who have used each category of apps in the past month.)

Last month library staff had the opportunity to attend training on our new Downloading Mobile Apps Procedure.

The library is also utilizing the most popular mobile devices in our ‘petting zoo’ displays so we are prepared to share our knowledge with the community.

We are also meeting users where they are (which is always connected online) with trends such as checking in, text messaging, and instant messaging.

Another way the library is anticipating patron needs in the mobile world is on our website where we have created content on “How to Download Apps” and “Recommended Apps”.

Since the introduction of mobile apps the entire library experience can be enhanced.

Zinio allows patrons to check out magazines with their library card online. The Zinio app enables them to read the magazines on their mobile devices.

The Overdrive app does the same, but with ebooks, audio books, and videos.

In our continuation to develop mobile library services...

The Libraries are working with the Black Hills Area Community Foundation in the development of an app for the Black Hills Knowledge Network.

We have in place a mobile site in which patrons can Search the Catalog, place a hold, Access Downloadables and Databases, and most importantly, Stay Connected.