ARiadne is a ubiquitous computing application for academic library spaces––providing library patrons real-time searching, navigation, and acquisition possibilities of library resources with a screen-based interface. No applications need to be downloaded as ARiadne is web-based and signing in is as easy as scanning a QR code.
ARiadne is designed to focus on the location and availability of printed artifacts stored on shelves, such as books, journals, and historical documents, as well as physical study spaces, including both single and group study spaces within the library.
For library patrons interested in locating an item on the shelf, Ariadne offers a robust search function, recommendations based on previous history, as well as a customizable, AR supported walk toward the item they’re item of interest.
For those looking for a study space, ARiadne streamlines this process by displaying availability of study spaces in real-time, allowing for multiple levels of choice that gives users control over where and what type of study space they want. Ariadne also signals the availability status of study spaces to other library patrons with the use of embedded lighting technology within the study space. The AR supported navigation system reduces search time by reducing the likelihood of a user getting lost, and does so in a way that can be fun and engaging.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VHg-dsw6ww4oinn1wJPHuqlzhwOxjOAm/view?usp=drive_link
ARiadne is a library-wide integrative system consisting of multiple components:
The library beacon network allows the user to navigate toward the resource.
The IoT devices allow for real-time location and availability status of library resources. This includes the capacity to light up when the user is within visual proximity of the resource.
User interaction is mediated through the web-based application which can be used on any screened device. The application leverages the device’s camera functionality and augmented reality (AR) to display virtual navigation signifiers (avatar and/or wayfinding line) to help guide the user toward their resource of interest.
Our team wanted to explore how a ubiquitous computing system might help library users navigate the library resources in a way that increased user choice, reduced search time, and created an augmented navigation experience that was delightful and engaging.