Hybrid Library: QR Codes Access eBooks in Subway Station

via weburbanist.com

"If you happen to be in Bucharest, you can snag a volume from their floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall collection of ebook posters at the station. Just scan the QR Code, read the sample and if you enjoy - just purchase the full book!"
Great use case! Mobile is all about helping folks do stuff NOW!

QR codes for school projects

via qrcodepress.com

"The QR codes that are placed on the books in the library give the kids the chance to scan and then listen to information about what is found within its pages. The fifth grade students have been tasked with creating reviews for the books that they have read, so that other kids attending the school can listen to them and learn more about what the book is about."

Great idea for school projects using QR Codes!

Simon & Schuster is adding QR codes to all its print books

via paidcontent.org

>>
The codes “make it easy for consumers to visit our site and hopefully subscribe to one of our newsletters,” S&S chief digital officer Ellie Hirschhorn wrote in a recent email to employees. Scanning the QR code on a book ”will bring the consumer to the author’s mobile page on S&S.com where they can sign up for an email, browse the author’s other books and watch video.” Jackets will also include a printed link to the author’s website “so consumers without smartphones or QR scanners could still easily find the author’s page.”

Great idea! Should work if scanning the code leads to relevant engaging content. Like in Spain, they can also promote books using QR Codes:
http://blog.qryptal.com/2012/04/in-spain-trains-offer-first-chapter-of.html

In Spain, trains offer first chapter of novels through QR codes

via springwise.com

The Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (Catalan Government Railways) has placed posters offering download links to the first chapters of books on its trains as part of the National Reading Plan, with aims to improve literacy.
Great use case, like the "Amazon Look Inside" feature. Shrink wrapped books/magazines can also do this.