In order to offer library system functionality on an mobile device (tablet or phone) venders may offer a 'responsive design ' approach. In essence this resizes the existing web based functionality to fit on a smaller (mobile or tablet screen). Delivering Responsive Web Design via the Library OPAC - a literature review. Wednesday, 26 October 2016

Vendors may also offer an Apps. Apps have to be downloaded (from an 'app store' -eg Apple's app store, Google play) onto the mobile device and generally provide a different user experience -for example workflows and functions may be tailored to better exploit working on a mobile device.

Apps may be specific to the library or library functionality may be incorporated into a wider university app. For example, library system vendor Ex Libris (Clarivate) provides campusM - an app that is designed for multiple functions.

From the website: 14 March 2023. “At SOLUS we are well known for our mobile app in public libraries and our newly introduced events and room booking platform. We are now entering the US academic market with our debut at the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) conference in Pittsburgh in 15th – 17th March. SOLUS currently has approximately 20 academic customers with our mobile app in Australia, UK and USA and are now more than ready for expansion.The academic library app features include:

Integration with 15 ILS/LSP platforms
Authentication options include Shibboleth, CAS, SAML and Azure Active Directory
Format roll-up, FRBR-ized display of available resources
Push, emergency and event notifications to students, faculty and admin
RFID and barcode self-check out/in
Consortia support
30 languages with new support for right to left languages (Arabic, Hebrew & Urdu)
Reading and wish list functionality
Virtual and on-campus events
Events integration directly into the app (register/cancel reminder notifications, history, etc.)”

From the web site: “With a focus on safety and contactless service, Innovative Mobile simplifies receiving online payments and provides low-cost patron self-service options, including a digital library card and a self-check via barcode or RFID. In addition, a “Curbside Pickup” option is available for patrons to reserve items in the app and be notified when it’s time to pick up, and an “I’m Here” option to alert the library the patron is ready for pickup curbside”.

From the OCLC website: “Digby is a mobile app that is available as part of your library’s WorldShare Management Services (WMS) subscription. The Digby app is for use by your student workers, volunteers, and staff and provides clear instructions for handling a range of common library tasks from reshelving items to basic inventory, and more.