This innovative project seeks to explore the use of the new Google Eddystone beacon as a means of improving the student experience within the library. It will test ways in which service updates and information can be delivered to mobile devices using beacon technology. This particular brand of beacon has the potential to transmit URLs through Bluetooth and, although still at a very early stage, could have a transformational impact on the way the library delivers services and information to users.

This pilot will focus on the library's print services: a beacon will be located at each of the seven print points in the building and, when someone with a Bluetooth enabled device comes within proximity, they will automatically be sent a link to an instructional video (e.g. 'how to use cloud printing') . If the project is successful, there is scope to expand it so that notifications can be sent to users about other services within the building, such as PC and UCreate availability or accessible room bookings.

The NMC Horizon 2015 Library Edition report highlighted ‘Location Intelligence’ as one of the key long term technological developments in libraries. This trial would enable the library to demonstrate its leadership in this field and provide us with in-house expertise so that we are well placed to take advantage of future developments; the library doesn’t currently have any developer expertise in beacon technology.

Fundamentally this project is about improving the student experience and satisfaction in the library and demonstrating our global leadership role in the early adoption of cutting edge technology.

Costs: LDDT developer (£2,000) + seven beacons (£200) = £2,200