Effective library web sites

Ten useful points to consider. Just a start.

• Use appropriate fonts and colors so that text is easy to read. Use simple middle school language.
  
• Navigation bars should be clearly highlighted and accessible from all the sites pages. Users need to know where they are and know clearly how to get from A to B.
  
• In the home page employ Catchy headlines and short sentences/paragraphs in combination with a variety of media to engage prospective readers. Link these to background pages for more detailed information and content.
• Utilize attractive graphical interfaces for both linking and separating/highlighting targeted content. Ensue that the web site design and layout is consistent through out the site.
  
• Patrons should be able to access a librarian via virtual reference links or be able to search the site or catalogue from any page. The Meebo tool is a good example. Attractive graphical interfaces such as a Google style dialogue box should be employed. Cut out the blandness and complexity of traditional OPAC's.
  
• The Mathews article mentions using Google Analytics to monitor user activity. Understanding how users use the site will be vital for improving its design and functionality.
  
• Constantly update content. News, events and collections promotion should provide a steady stream of interesting material for this. Invite feedback and comments.
  
• Users should also be able navigate to any part of the libraries digital ecology from the Libraries home page. For example links to facebook, twitter and flickr should be prominently displayed.
• Allot can be learned from Gaming to make sites both more usable and enjoyable. Staff should be encouraged to look out side the box for solutions to usability issues and problems.
  
• Support interactivity via imbedded Blogs, and RSS feeds. Make the site more useful for individual users,