This program will cover the basics of setting up a circulating tablet program including policy creation, security concerns, device selection, content selection and creation, and implementation of the program. The presenters will also share tablet experiences drawn from public and academic library environments and give an overview of trends in library tablet use.

1. Stephanie Freedle
University of Arkansas
Libraries
Physics Library
Anne Gresham
Springdale Public Library
Kathleen Lehman
University of Arkansas
Libraries
Physics Library

2. Thou shalt Consider
the purpose of thy program
What do you wish to accomplish?
• Device comparison and general exploration for patrons?
• Themed tablets, such as a Nook filled with Westerns
• Roaming reference and library services extension
• Meet the needs of various patron groups? An iPad for homebound use?
This will determine your device choice, checkout lengths, etc.

3. Thou shalt Consider
Thy patrons
• Who owns tablets? Are we keeping in mind those who don’t?
• What support/instruction will they need to get started?
Understand there may be a learning curve with device use.
• Are we making sure to
facilitate use?
• Power outlets
• Wireless network
• Device restrictions

4. Thou shalt honor thy library
This is a perfect opportunity to promote what your library has!
Load the tablets with the apps for library resources
• Overdrive, Freegal, Mango, etc.
*Test all apps before releasing them to patrons!
Promote other library services
• Add library website to home screen
• Add library events to the calendar or library photos to Photos

5. A screenshot of the iPad set up at Springdale Public Library

6. An example of how books loaded on the University of Arkansas
Libraries’ iPads appear in the catalog.

7. Thou shalt develop clear
regulations for patrons
Things to consider:
• Loan period (think about your purpose)
• Late returns
• Damages
• Theft
• Replacement costs
• Renewals or checkout limits
• Age limits
• Patron agreements
• When are they signed?
• How long until they have to sign again?

8. Examples of borrowing agreements

9. Thou shalt prepare and empower
library staff
• Involve staff in the implementation of the project
• Provide staff training and a forum for staff discussion
• Encourage staff checkouts

10. Thou shalt honor thy devices
Have a plan for what to do when a device is
returned and who cares for it:
• Apple Configurator setup
• Syncing trays and storage
• Physical maintenance and cleaning
• Staff workflow and record keeping
Pictured: An Apple synching tray
that attaches to a Mac and provides
easy synching, charging, and storage.

11. Thou shalt have a plan for
replacement and upgrading
Accidents happen. Newer models come out. Be ready.
• Budget for upgrades and replacements
• Clear policies for patron billing
• Explore warranties. (i.e., Apple Care - covers accidental
damage)

12. Thou shalt review and evaluate
your program
How will you measure your
program’s success? How can
patrons request apps, books,
or modifications?
• Circulation statistics
• Surveys
• Informal feedback channels

13. Thou shalt attempt to spend someone
else’s money
• Look for grants or other special funding
• Consider smaller grants or donations
• Consider both start-up and up-keep costs in your
requests and budgeting

14. Thou shalt not walk in darkness
Contact us
Stephanie Freedle – shamblen@uark.edu
Anne Gresham – agresham@springdalelibrary.org
Kathleen Lehman – kalehman@uark.edu
Public libraries in Arkansas may also reach out to Donovan Mays at the Arkansas State Library. Donovan can work
with your library on technology plans, provide workshops, present technology “petting zoos”, and more.
Contact Donovan at:
donovan@library.arkansas.gov
(501) 682-5291
http://www.library.arkansas.gov/libraryDivisions/
computersARLibraries/Pages/TechnicalAssistance.aspx

15. Check out what other libraries have done:
Eau Claire (WI) Public Library:
http://www.ecpubliclibrary.info/services/library-services/ipads.html
Springdale (AR) Public Library:
http://www.springdalelibrary.org/html/events.php#ipads
Bentonville (AR) Public Library:
http://www.bentonvillelibrary.org/borrowing-bpl/nook-ereaders/
University of Arkansas-Fayetteville Libraries:
http://newswire.uark.edu/articles/14890/ipads-available-for-checkout-at-mullins-library
University of North Texas:
http://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc174734/

16. Image sources
Slide 1: “The Ten Commandments” *video production+. (1956). Paramount Pictures.
Slide 2: Devices from www.bestbuy.com
Slide 3: http://outlookmag.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/10commandmentstop.jpg
Slide 4: App icons from iTunes
Slide 6: http://www.alliances-delivrances.com/article-dieu-est-un-amoureux-jaloux-by-
david-wilkerson-may-19-1931-april-27-2011-96260864.html
Slide 9: “The Ten Commandments” [video production]. (1956). Paramount Pictures.
Slide 10: www.apple.com
Slide 11: www.nanotechnews.com and www.apple.com/applecare
Slide 12: “The Ten Commandments” *video production+. (1956). Paramount Pictures.
Slide 13: http://www.efundsplus.com/2013/04/20/some-biblical-verses-on-money-and-
wealth/