Emma Clark Library to Launch Mobile App

A mobile app to be launched later this month will give patrons on-the-go access to library services at the Emma S. Clark Memorial Library.

In an interview Wednesday, library director Ted Gutmann detailed "Emma Mobile," a free app for both the Apple and Android markets that will be available starting Nov. 15.

"It's kind of moving in a new direction. I'm excited about it," Gutmann said. "Hopefully we'll be able to build on this in the future."

Patrons with iPhones, iPads, and Android devices equipped with cameras will have the ability to scan an ISBN code on any book to search for that book in the library's catalog. Emma Mobile also features a traditional catalog search, a notification system for patrons who have items on hold or past due, an auto-dial feature to call the library, and more.

The app took about six months to develop, from its inception to the beta phase to its planned release next week. According to Gutmann, the library spent "a few hundred dollars" on the app. He said he hopes it will reach people who might not use the library regularly – in particular students.

"We're hoping it's something that kids will find appealing," he said.

Ken Bellafiore, president of the Nassau County Library Association, said a similar app offered by the Nassau Libraries Association has been positive for the library system. "Whatever the patron needs is brought to their mobile device," Bellafiore said. "Just people using it and knowing it's available is positive in itself."