FIRST STEPS
We started with the Creative Brief which outlines the goals, challenges, brand attributes, and audience (personas). We also researched other library sites evaluating the UX design, features, and information architecture. Even though we have designed many library websites, we still perform this research for every library site we do. This ensures that the most recent library design features are considered, as well as creating a uniquely designed site.
LOGO
We were excited when Howe requested we redesign their logo. The uniqueness of the building’s architecture was a natural starting point for exploring different options.
We also explored options using the library mascot - the owl.
For fun, we showed how the logo would look on other applications such as a t-shirt:
The final design was a result of multiple rounds of design concepts and feedback from the Howe Library team. They were very pleased with the result.
ROW BASED DESIGN
We utilized a Row Based Design for the Home page. Row Based Design uses single rows to display content as opposed to columns, ensuring less distraction and clutter for the viewer. Another benefit is row based design accommodates varying screen sizes, making for a more mobile optimized site. The first row after the hero area on the home page displays events utilizing a card design. Events are designated on the back end to display select events or settings can be changed to display the three most recent events.
The next row highlights online resources such as the streaming content resources Hoopla, Kanopy, and Libby. Many patrons are unaware of the free streaming content libraries offer. We simplified the display with an engaging photo for a more impactful message.
The New Arrivals row shows books from the catalog. We integrated the Evergreen ILS to display the book covers dynamically on the home page.
To cap off the home page, we highlighted the Howe’s mascot: the owl with a fun call to action for subscribing to the newsletter.
LIBRARY OF THINGS
Another highlight of the new site was integrating a Library of Things feature displaying items from the Evergreen ILS. Libraries are much more than places for borrowing books. A Library of Things is a new innovation where libraries offer a variety of real world items such as tools, musical instruments, and games.
MORE HIGHLIGHTS
Here are a few more of the project highlights and features:
- Dynamic hours display
- Blog migration
- Mega menu for displaying secondary and third level navigation
- ADA compliance
- Photo & video galleries
- Google Analytics & Google Search Console integration
- 301 redirects and an XML sitemap to retain search engine rankings
- Alert Bar for time sensitive and important notifications
- Book & media carousels
- A ‘Ways to Give’ donation page
- An 'Ask a Librarian' feature
- Library Card Registration
- Constant Contact newsletter subscription integration
We thoroughly enjoyed working with the Howe Library team and are glad to see the site receiving such a positive response. It’s always a pleasure to help libraries extend their reach into the broader community.
