Purpose-This paper is to explore art and design students' use of smartphones for accessing library services and learning at the Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI). Design/methodology/approach-A questionnaire survey involving 51 HKDI students was conducted to examine the students' utilization of apps and the Internet on mobile devices to find information for the purpose of academic learning, social networking, and collaborative learning. Findings-Survey results showed that while the HKDI students were all smartphone owners and active users of such mobile communication devices, only a minority of them "frequently" use these mobile devices for formal learning purposes. They demonstrated a keen preference to use search engines, social communications, and other diverse use of smartphones. Except for research and image/audio-visual needs, the rest of their needs and usage behaviour is similar to mainstream university students. Practical implications-The results suggests opportunities for the libraries to develop services and facilities that could better fulfil students' information needs, and to improve the network coverage outside the library. Originality/value-This is probably the first study of its kind to explore art and design students' use of smartphones for learning needs. In particular, the recent capability of smartphones and mobile Internet speed are comparable with desktops, it is vital to reexamine the much changed environment and user needs.