Books and Technology at Children's Museum of Houston

While visiting the Children's Museum of Houston, I noticed books being used in several exhibits to supplement displays.  Technology was also used in just about every exhibit, either as a means of sharing information or as some sort of hands-on activity.

The Yalalag Exhibit, which shares the experience of life in a small mountainous Mexican village, had an "Escuela Primaria" complete with a computer and small library.  A small television with easy-to-use buttons affixed to the front was used to share videos as well.



Books and technology were also found in the EcoStation.  Books were attached to large clipboards that were strapped to a wall next to displays.  A small collection of books and a television were also used to share information.

Something that my husband noticed, which is new to me, was the use of QR codes.  The museum uses the codes to share information with visitors.  Those with iPhones simply take a picture of the QR code with their phone, and it opens a website with information about the exhibit or display they are viewing.  I have seen the codes before but wasn't sure what they were used for.  After doing a little research online, it seems that the uses for QR codes are almost endless.  I read that some libraries are starting to use them in their catalogs, giving patrons even more information about books in their collection.  What a cool way to add information without having to add more space or materials.