QR Codes in the Library

An introduction to the use of QR (Quick Response) codes is described with an emphasis on how libraries can apply them. As smartphone use increases, people are turning to their phones for instant access to information via mobile tagging. This column provides a quick history of one of the types of two-dimensional barcode technology; explains the QR code—what it is and how it generally works; and describes how libraries are incorporating QR codes into user services.