A video tour highlights the most important new features.
Important enhancements include:
- A single highly visible search box on the front page that returns both catalog results and articles from thousands of online journals and databases in an intuitive two-column display;
- Front-and-center placement of the most requested links such as library hours, and a simplified top menu that is consistent throughout the site;
- A list of places to study that can be searched by features such as “open late,” “group study,” or “absolute quiet”;
- A real-time display of hours that shows which libraries are open and what their schedules are;
- Plentiful photographs that highlight the libraries and what you will find when you get there; and
- A calendar of upcoming learning opportunities, lectures, concerts, and other events sponsored by the Library.
The site employs responsive design, meaning that it will work effectively regardless of the device you use, from a smartphone, all the way up to the largest monitors.
“We set out to make research easier and to make the libraries seem less intimidating and more accessible. So far the feedback has been great,” says Kim Vassiliadis, head of the Library’s User Experience Group. Vassiliadis directed the 18-month redesign that began with an extensive user study to see what was most needed and what caused confusion on the old site.
The library welcomes feedback on the site. Find the feedback link in the site footer or go directly to the comments page.
Published Aug. 5, 2013.