The University of Colorado at Boulder Law School

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Wise Law Library Smartphone Tag Project

What is the Smartphone Tag Project?

The Smartphone Tag Project extends library services to smartphone users by creating barcodes or tags encoded with links to websites and other information resources. These tags have been strategically located throughout the law library. When a smartphone user scans the tag, the information contained in the tag is displayed on the smartphone. These tags may lead to web pages, contain text messages, or contact database information.

How does it work?

The library is using the Microsoft Tag Reader software to create and decode these tags. Library personnel use the software to create tags that link to web pages, include text, or contain contact data. The software then generates a tag which can be printed or posted on to a web site.

What do I need to use these tags?

Library users will need a smartphone equipped with the Microsoft Tag Reader software. This software is freely available from Microsoft and runs on a number of different smartphone operating systems including Android and iPhone. More information about the software, including downloading instructions, can be found at http://tag.microsoft.com/consumer/index.aspx.

How has the library used the software to extend library services?

In this initial phase of the program, the law library will be using the tags to:

• Awareness: to access collection resource guides, electronic resources, and new acquisitions
• Service: to provide users with instructions on how to use the microforms collection and equipment
• Contact: to export library contact information directly into users' smartphones
• Instruction: to provide law students access to instructor's notes when doing legal research exercises
• Marketing: to market library services, including especially this smartphone tag program.

Who do I contact with questions?

If you have any questions about the Smartphone Tag Project or installing or using the software, please contact Robert Linz, Associate Director and Head of Public Services.