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Issue #4
1/19/2024
9 Must-Haves on Your Website
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Hello, librarians!
This issue will cover basic elements that your users need to see on your website, plus some ‘good-to-have’ features that you may want to add.
Which of the items in this list go into which category? You decide!
- Sharon Barnes, SCKLS Technology Consultant
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Make it easy for people to find your library building!
Even some long-time community residents may not realize where the library is located, especially if it’s not on a main street.
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This information should be prominent on your home page, and ideally, easily found on other pages, too. Sidebars or footers are good options.
A photo of your building – even a small picture – is surprisingly helpful.
Bonus: Add a map link, so people can get directions from their current location.
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Online Catalog
Help patrons search and browse your circulating materials online. A link to your online catalog should be obvious! The main navigation menu may be the first place people look, but you can also add links in other areas.
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If you are set up for it, help patrons log in to their account to see what they have checked out and renew or request items. In addition to a link or button for access, this could mean providing basic instructions.
Bonus: Add an interactive search box to your site, so users can enter a search term and jump straight to the results list in the catalog.
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Event Calendar
There’s always something happening at your library!
In addition to promoting your events (special or regular) on social media and in person, make sure they’re easy to find on a calendar so people can make plans to attend.
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Bonus: Set up online registration for your free events. This can be very helpful, but remember that it may take some time for people to start using it. | |
Accessibility
Not everyone sees or uses websites in the same way. SCKLS-hosted websites have accessibility features turned on, but you need to be aware of things you should do to make sure your website can be easily used by people with a wide variety of abilities.
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Library Services
“You have THAT?!” How many times have your patrons expressed surprise over your range of services?
Do you have 24-hour wifi? A makerspace, notary or passport services, a seed library, meeting rooms?
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Spread the word about services your library offers, especially those not traditionally associated with libraries! | |
Special Collections
Many libraries have local history collections, with information found nowhere else.
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Be sure to provide information about and access to all of your collections, including 'Library of Things' circulating items like wifi hotspots, cake pans, tools, games or sports gear or park & museum passes. | |
Library News & Social Media
Connect with your community through social media, and link to your social media sites. But remember that many people don’t use Facebook or other channels.
So if possible (and sustainable), post regularly on your website about what’s happening at your library. ‘Regular’ might mean twice a week or once a month - just don’t let it get outdated and stale.
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Links
Make your website a jumping-off point for all residents! Provide easy-to-find links to local information, including school and city websites and other community organizations.
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Be sure to add links to free statewide resources, including ebooks & audiobooks and databases. Just don’t call them 'databases'! Use terms like ‘information’ or ‘research’ that are more descriptive. Or better yet, label them with specific subjects, like auto repair or genealogy.
And don’t forget to explore these resources yourself, so you will be able to recommend them to patrons!
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Information for Donors & Volunteers
Libraries have a lot of good will out there, but people may not be aware of ways to actively show their support.
Whether it’s monetary donations or gently used books, volunteer opportunities or donations of craft supplies, let your community members know what you need and how they can help.
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Including these key elements on your website will help improve user experience, accessibility, and engagement, reinforcing the library's vital role in your community!
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If you have missed any previous issues, you can now read them online.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns about your website,
please reach out to me at sharon@sckls.info.
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Sharon Barnes, SCKLS Technology Consultant
sharon@sckls.info
1-800-234-0529 x135
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