Media Center Web Pages
In general, there are certain aspects of a web page that make users want to explore the content and return to the site. As Media Specialists, we should recognize that a well-designed, informative, and current web page can speak volumes about the programs we have to offer. After all, we need to advocate and 'sell' our programs to all of our stakeholders.
In reviewing some great (and not so great) web pages for this assignment, I found some features that I think every library site should incorporate. First and foremost, the design should be appealing and easy-to-read (font choice, colors, arrangement of items...not too busy). Next, list basic information such as hours of operation, names of staff and contact information. A link to the OPAC system is essential. And, if your library offers online databases, links to these resources should be here as well, so that users have a 'one stop shop' for all their needs.
By including a mission statement and a link to the school's mission statement and strategic plan on the page, media specialists can take this opportunity to show how the library program enhances the overall objective of the school and helps to increase student achievement.
Other items that I found very helpful on some of the websites:
- an Acceptable Use Policy
- a library annual report
- information about the media specialist ("about me")
- links to outside resources for students and community
- links for teacher resources
- links to documents
- links to copyright information
- television channel lineup (if school offers this)
- an online form for suggested library materials
- links to pathfinders
- links for citation guidelines
So, my advice for building a website is to look at many other web pages and make notes of the things you like and don't like. Talk with your administrative staff to see if there are any requirements or policies about what should be on teacher/school pages. For consistency, some schools require that all teachers use the same platform or design. For instance, my school uses Blackboard for class information (so that all teacher pages are similar) and requires teachers to update information weekly.
And, just a reminder, please make sure all your links work and you include a way for your stakeholders to contact you for further information, or just to tell you that your program is wonderful!
Cindy,
ReplyDeleteI honestly have never thought about how much goes into creating and maintaining a website. It is a full time job in its own and I beleive requires someone who is technology savvy to make it a good one. You suggested several important items that should be included that I never reallt thought of. The pathfinder is a great idea. My thoughts are though do we as media specialists make those? I agree the link to the OPAC is a must and we also want teachers to use it, so we cannot forget useful sites for them. It is a true fact that we need to "sell our programs" and make sure people will not only visit the website but also the actual media center itself.
You are so right Cindy with making sure to keep our websites current and up-to-date. With this being my first year as a media specialist, cleaning up is what I seem to be doing this first year so far. That goes for the the website. There is lots of information available, but I have found that many of the links don't work. Also, there seems to be link after link after link after link. Organizing the website to be helpful, informational, but also eye-appealing to make visitors want to come back. Too much information can almost be overwhelming even if it has a lot of great information. They viewer can feel too stressed to re-visit the site again.
ReplyDeleteI agree the links working and up-to-date are key elements to hosting a successful webpage. The range of websites built by media specialists is astounding! Actually I was unaware of just how deficient my school website was until I was required to review others! I was particularly impressed with one school that featured Amazon as a fundraiser. Parents could streamline their purchases through the school; the media center received a portion of the proceeds.
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