This book is an excellent guide to app use for both newcomers to smart devices as well as those with a deeper understanding of tablet and mobile applications. Mr Hahn has created a solid reference tool that ought to remain relevant for the next several years, quite a feat for any guidebook to technology use. The book is not designed to be read linearly, but is instead composed of single entries for individual apps, grouped by category. The app categories included in the book are utility, augmented reality, productivity, and social.
The individual entry for each app includes a short explanation of the app's functionality and examples of potential uses in library environments. Usage examples include suggestions for use by both patrons and library staff. Suggestions for app use for patrons include populating Apple's iBooks app with free samples of books available in a library's collection to promote book use by patrons (p. 37), and using augmented reality to help point the way to electronic resources patrons might overlook because of a lack of physical presence. Each entry also includes background information on app limitations and caveats, such as apps that require paid subscriptions to unlock full functionality. Possible future developments and applications for the technology or information design driving the app are also described.
While this book will be an essential resource for those looking to streamline productivity for librarians embedded outside of the physical library or select content to load onto library-owned devices, some additional information on platform and operating system requirements would be extremely helpful for new mobile librarians. The text focusses heavily on apps available from Apple and Google and almost completely ignores developments from Windows mobile, except when describing single apps from Microsoft. In many entries it is unclear whether apps are available only on Android platforms, only on Apple, or available for both. An index or table of platforms, or consistency in platform labeling would be extremely helpful.
Overall, the book will be worthwhile for librarians working in a variety of settings, whether they are embedded, solos, or part of a large public services team. Librarians looking to start social media and other outreach programs focussed on mobile devices, librarians looking for ways to reach millennials, teens, and tweens, and those working within tight budgets will benefit from this book
