Using PDAs in Libraries: A How-to-do-it Manual

Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) - portable, multifunctional, and able to connect with computers and networks - are both a fast-selling consumer device and a hot technology for libraries. This timely guide helps librarians and information professionals understand how these devices fit into day-to-day operations and how libraries can become more accommodating to PDA-using patrons. Cuddy provides an overview of PDAs, including their history, a comparison of different makes and models, and a look ahead at their future growth. She explores the wireless benefits, storage options, and valuable peripherals (cameras, barcode readers, cardswipes, printers) for PDAs. Software applications - Microsoft Word, document readers, Web browsing, and more - are examined and discussed. The use of PDAs in collection development and provision of materials - e-journals, e-books, databases - is outlined. Special sections cover the applicability of this technology to special projects including delivering content to users, developing applications, lending policies (both for PDAs and PDA-readable content), mobilizing staff, marketing and promoting services, developing instruction, privacy and security, and more. Practical and easy-to-understand, this manual demystifies PDAs and prepares professionals to harness their portable power.