And yet, how many really good, really well-constructed library websites are there, ones that do deliver the e-goods to researchers effectively? On many library websites, e-resources are “buried” so deeply it will take a plucky and resourceful patron to find them at all. Having found them, it will take a courageous and versatile patron to use them effectively. And we’re not talking about using these files like a librarian would use them but using them to find what the researchers are actually seeking. For example, we like the Earlham College Libraries website (at http://legacy.earlham. edu/library), but if you go to the Earlham College homepage (at www.earlham.edu), the only link to the Libraries evident there is buried at the bottom of the screen, in a short column of not-very- prominent links (and the URL is not terribly intuitive, even for web gurus).
The point we’re making here is that many libraries not only are missing out on the opportunity to market e-resources effectively via their websites but also are actively turning off researchers from using the resources because they are difficult to find and use. So a major portion of your marketing plan’s assessment needs to include what¬ever means your library uses to get the e-resources to your patrons.
For ideas on how to assess your library web presence, we recom¬mend the following resources and examples of best practice:
John Kupersmith’s Library Terms That Users Understand (www.jkup.net/terms.html), is “intended to help library web developers decide how to label key resources and services in such a way that most users can understand them well enough to make productive choices. It compiles usability test data evaluating terminology on library websites, and suggests test methods and best practices for reducing cognitive barriers caused by terminology.”
Duke University Libraries Web Assessment Reports (http:// library.duke.edu/about/assessment/web/index.html):
Duke University Libraries’ Web Interfaces Group (WIG) sponsors regular assessment activities of the Libraries’ homepage and supporting pages. This assessment includes, but is not limited to, the following:
1. Public reporting of web statistics via Google Analytics each semester and at the end of the second summer session.
2. User studies in the form of usability studies, circle- mapping, or user interviews of the homepage annually: conducted at the end of the spring semester; analysis and reporting early summer; and changes implemented by start of classes fall semester.
3. User studies in the form of usability studies, user interviews, or focus groups will be conducted on major web interfaces like the Search Resources collective and individual components every year, mid year: analysis and reporting and changes implemented by start of classes fall semester.
4. Content authors will be expected to assess their websites and pages, independently.
The WIG will publish findings and relevant statistics.
Staff from the Libraries’ Digital Experience Services depart¬ment provide assessment-related training and support on the use of Google Analytics and the Libraries’ Usability Lab.
• How to Design Library Websites to Maximize Usability (www.elsevier.com/framework_librarians/LibraryConnect/ lcpamphlet5.pdf), by Chris Jasek, Library Connect Pamphlet #5, 2nd ed., 2007.
• Public Library Website Guidelines from the State of Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services (www.olis .ri.gov/pubs/plstandards/websites.php).
• “Card Sorting: A Definitive Guide,” by Donna Spencer and Todd Warfel, posted on April 7, 2004, to boxesandarrows (www.boxesandarrows.com/view/card_sorting_a_ definitive_guide).
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