Guidelines for the content of library websites
Library websites contain a wealth of information. Feedback from users
and experience gained from managing websites has led to the emergence of a core
of information that is acknowledged as useful. These guidelines are an attempt
to assist libraries to develop websites that contain the information their
patrons and offsite users require.
Given the diversity of libraries and their websites, some of the
information listed in the first section of the guidelines will not be
applicable to every library. However, each library is encouraged to make use of
the relevant aspects. The ultimate test of a website is whether users can find
the information they expect, and whether they can find it easily.
Information to display somewhere within the site:
- details about the library - may include mention of special or unique
collections, collection strengths and target users, history, affiliation with
other libraries or institutions, policies, client charters, mission statements
...
- contact details - addresses of the library and all branch libraries
(including town/suburb, state and postcode); it may be useful to provide a map
or description to assist patrons to locate the library; telephone and fax
numbers (including area code) and/or email addresses of key functions, staff or
services;
- information about using the library - access rights, borrowing
rights, loan periods and limits, fees, opening hours, online access to
catalogues and databases, collection guides;
- details of services offered - reference services (including telephone
and email contacts if applicable), user guides, finding aids (Internet or
print, subject-oriented, annotated), specialised services (eg document
delivery, photocopying, Internet access, conservation services, services for
students, people with special needs ... noting which services are fee-based);
- details of what's new - additions and changes to the website by date
with the most recent items listed first, may also include details of new
acquisitions or publications and current and forthcoming events, services,
staff changes etc.
Information to display on every page:
- a descriptive title (this is the one displayed in the top bar of the
browser window - the TITLE tag in the head area of your HTML file);
- the name of the library or the organisation;
- date of last significant change of content;
- link to the library's home page and other necessary navigation aids.
Additional information to display on the home page and other key
pages:
- a name and email contact for feedback;
- the URL of the site (for printing purposes).
Don't forget to include a link to the Australian Libraries Gateway -
http://www.nla.gov.au/libraries/ - somewhere on your
site!
Metadata
The inclusion of metadata on your home page will help users and search
engines find your site. It need not be a difficult task. At the very least you
should use the HTML tags of TITLE, DESCRIPTION, KEYWORDS and AUTHOR. In
addition, the use of an appropriate metadata scheme, such as Dublin Core is
recommended.
For more information about Metadata, check out the Australian
Meta Matters site or
PADI metadata page.
Accessibility
Library websites should be accessible to all members of the community.
For information on web accessibility, see the guidelines from the World Wide
Web consortium at http://www.w3c.org/WAI/.
Last modified: October 07 2009.