On the Application of Gamification Elements in Libraries

Abstract

Libraries are still conservative in their approach or practice of providing various services for the unspecified majority of visitors attending these institutions. It is very apparent that libraries are not actively trying to increase the interest and participation of users by applying the various angles or elements associated with gamification. By its very nature, gamification is the application of game-playing elements such as point scoring, peer competition, team work, score tables, and such used to motivate participants and make them more engaged with the subject matter. In areas such as education, marketing, and exercise, the implementation of gamification techniques is actively taking place in order to maximum participation by taking advantage of uncertainties or the competitive nature that many people have with the setting of goals. In this study, four libraries that have applied gamification are analyzed to understand how and to what degree gamification has been applied. Broken down into four different elements, this includes: Point, Reward, Leaderboards & Competition, Self-expression & Achievement. By focusing on the results of this analysis, gamification measures that can be applied to other libraries are specifically proposed. The overall results of this study will provide useful guidance and potential plans for libraries seeking to increase the number of users by using gamification to increase user participation and/or satisfaction with additional library services.