The search wall: tangible information searching for children in public libraries

  • Authors:

  • Karen Detken;Carlos Martinez;Andreas Schrader

  • Affiliations:

  • University of Luebeck, Lübeck;University of Luebeck, Lübeck;University of Luebeck, Lübeck

  • Venue:
  • Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Tangible and Embedded Interaction
  • Year:
  • 2009

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Abstract

Children tend to rely on spatial and graphical cues rather than on digital applications to find media in libraries [7]. Although some Online Public Access Catalogs (OPACs) have been modified to appeal to young users, they are still hardly employed by children. Most of the enhancements in the physical space have been directed to signage systems and labels without much use of graphical and interactive elements. In this paper, a tangible interface is proposed as an alternative to support children's browsing activity in a public library. It draws from research in two fields: information interfaces for children, and tangible user interfaces. It is believed that by transferring functionalities of current information interfaces to the physical realm, the experience of young patrons in a public library might be enhanced in several aspects, including informational, social and recreational activities.