Patrons of the Tacoma Public Library can now use an app for smartphones and tablets that enable them to search and place holds on the library catalog, renew items, find directions to the nearest branch, ask questions of staff, see a calendar of upcoming programs, scan a book’s ISBN number to see if the library has the title or download eBooks and eAudioBooks directly onto their devices. The new app even allows patrons to connect with the library on Facebook, Twitter, or through library blogs.

Library users can download the new app online at Tacoma.boopsie.com or search “TPL mobile” in their app stores. The mobile app is currently available for Android smartphones and tablets. TPL mobile should be available shortly through Apple’s iTunes store. Patrons experiencing difficulty in loading the library application onto their smartphone or tablet are encouraged to bring their mobile device to the library for assistance.

“Everyone lives on their mobile phones these days, so it’s important for the library to be easily accessible whenever and wherever people need access to our staff and rich resources,” said Susan Odencrantz, Library Director. “Our mobile app puts library information just one click away with much faster access than going through a browser. We encourage everyone to take advantage of this new way to use the library by downloading our app.”

Searching the catalog with the mobile app is especially easy, library staff say. Just type the first few letters of two or three words and search results will begin to appear. For example, if you’re looking up Mark Twain in the catalog, just type “ma twa.” Once you find the title you’re looking for, you can place it on hold right from your phone.

The library’s mobile app was developed by Boopsie Inc. More than 250 libraries and universities use Boopsie to increase campus and community visibility. For more information on the library’s new mobile app, visit Tacoma.boopsie.com on your mobile device or contact the library at (253) 292-2001.