Trends of library-associated mobile learning based on a review of academic studies published from 2007 to 2016

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to analyze the trends and potential research issues involved with library-supported mobile learning. Design/methodology/approach Publications in the Scopus database from 2007 to 2016 are analyzed on various aspects, such as the adopted research methods, technologies, participants, application domains and research issues. Findings In addition to the awareness of the increasing number of digital library-associated mobile learning in the past decade, there are several interesting findings in this paper, such as most research mainly focused on investigating the affective domain of participants and assessing the effects of mobile learning. Most of the library-supported mobile learning research was conducted at special libraries, followed by academic libraries. Practical implications Potential applications and research directions of library-supported mobile learning are suggested based on the findings of the present paper. Originality/value This paper provides insight in relation to library-associated mobile learning. The findings and suggestions can serve as a good reference for researchers and school teachers when conducting mobile learning studies and to develop quality learning activities with access to library facilities using mobile and wireless communication technologies.