QR codes are two-dimensional barcodes that can store various types of information, such as text, URL, email, phone number, etc. They can be scanned by smartphones or other devices with a camera and a QR code reader app. QR codes can be used for many purposes, such as marketing, education, entertainment, and more.
One of the applications of QR codes is to enhance the reading experience of books. By adding a QR code to a book, you can link it to additional digital content that can complement or expand the book’s content. For example, you can link a QR code to:
- A website or a web page that provides more information about the book, the author, the genre, the reviews, etc.
- A personal profile or a contact detail of the author or the publisher, so that readers can connect with them or send feedback.
- A social media platform where readers can follow, like, share, or comment on the book or the author.
- An image gallery that shows more illustrations, photos, diagrams, or charts related to the book.
- A video file that shows a trailer, an interview, a documentary, or a tutorial related to the book.
- An audio file that offers an audiobook version, a podcast, a music track, or a sound effect related to the book.
- A bonus chapter, an excerpt, a quiz, a survey, or a game related to the book.
There are two types of QR codes: static and dynamic. Static QR codes are fixed and cannot be changed once they are generated. Dynamic QR codes are flexible and can be edited or updated even after they are printed. Static QR codes are simpler and faster to create and scan than dynamic QR codes. However, static QR codes have some limitations and disadvantages compared to dynamic QR codes. For example:
- Static QR codes cannot track or measure the scanning activity or the user behavior. Dynamic QR codes can provide analytics such as the number of scans, the location of scans, the device type of scans, etc.
- Static QR codes cannot redirect to another URL or content if the original one is changed or deleted. Dynamic QR codes can change the destination URL or content without changing the appearance of the code.
- Static QR codes have less storage capacity than dynamic QR codes. Static QR codes can store up to 3 KB of data, while dynamic QR codes can store up to 10 KB of data.
Despite these drawbacks, static QR codes can still be useful and effective for books if they are used properly and wisely. Here are some tips on how to use static QR code for books:
- Choose a reliable and reputable online QR code generator that can create high-quality and scannable static QR codes. Some examples are QR Code Chimp, QR TIGER, Pageloot, etc.
- Select the type of data that you want to embed in your static QR code. It can be text, URL, email, phone number, etc. Make sure that the data is relevant and valuable for your book and your readers.
- Customize your static QR code according to your preference and your book’s design. You can change the color, shape, size, logo, frame, etc. of your static QR code. However, do not compromise the readability and scannability of your code.
- Test your static QR code before printing it on your book. Use different devices and apps to scan your code and check if it works properly and leads to the correct content.
- Print your static QR code on your book at a suitable location. It can be on the cover page, the back cover page, the inside flap page, etc. Make sure that your code is visible and accessible for your readers.
- Add a call to action next to your static QR code that tells your readers what they will get when they scan your code. For example: “Scan this code to watch an exclusive interview with the author”, “Scan this code to listen to an audiobook version”, “Scan this code to join our online community”, etc.
By following these steps, you can use static QR code for books effectively and efficiently. Static QR code for books can enhance the reading experience of your readers by providing them with more information, entertainment, and interaction related to your book.