Susan McMullen

Usability Testing in a Library Web Site Redesign Project

An intuitive library information gateway is critical to meeting the information needs of library users in the digital age. This article describes the process involved in redesigning a library Web site. In addition to first determining the goals and requirements for the library Web site, a user and task analysis was conducted for defining the library’s user base and the types of tasks which users might be performing at the site. Usability testing methods, such as observational interviews, provided fresh insights about how users are interacting with the library Web interface as they approach various information seeking tasks. These usability studies uncovered problems related to unclear terminology, proper use of color, size, and location for navigational links, and the need for context sensitive help, built‐in redundancy, and clear and consistent navigation.

US government information: selected current issues in public access vs. private competition

Abstract Web information systems are having a profound effect on the way information is being disseminated today. Current technological advances have caused many government agencies to re-evaluate their practice of contracting with private sector vendors who have traditionally repackaged and marketed the agencys raw data. These new opportunities for government agencies wishing to make information publicly accessible have blurred the traditional distinctions between public and private dissemination activities. Low-cost public dissemination of information has resulted in private sector vendors arguing that public electronic distribution and publication creates unfair competition. New partnerships, such as the recent venture between the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) and the commercial search engine, Northern Light, in developing the “usgovsearch” product are also being explored. From another viewpoint, library associations are strongly supporting legislation that would broaden, strengthen, and enhance public access to electronic government information. Key issues to be discussed are: (1) the debate concerning public vs. private access to government information; (2) Does electronic access to government information eliminate the need for printed documents? and (3) Joint efforts — when should the government team up with private sector allies to charge for information services and access?

What does electronic full‐text really mean? A comparison of database vendors and what they deliver

The experience of a multi‐site higher education library consortium in purchasing electronic journals and databases is described. The criteria and guidelines developed to assist in the decision‐making process for the purchase of multidisciplinary electronic products and services can be of value to other libraries whether in a single or consortial environment. Factors such as database features, coverage, search features, and delivery options were considered.

US Academic Libraries

In 2007, the author examined existing academic libraries in the United States to determine best practices for the design, implementation and service of learning commons facilities. A primary objective of this study was to discover how to create a higher education learning environment that sustains scholarship, encourages collaboration and empowers student learning. This article explains how to plan for a modern learning commons and presents the various components that comprise the space.

Les bibliothèques universitaires aux États-Unis

En 2007, l’auteur a etudie un certain nombre de bibliotheques universitaires existant aux Etats-Unis, afin de mettre en evidence les bonnes pratiques suivies dans le domaine de la conception et du fonctionnement des centres de ressources documentaires et pedagogiques, ainsi que des services qu’ils offrent. L’un des premiers objectifs de cette etude etait de determiner la facon de creer, dans l’enseignement superieur, un cadre qui favorise l’enrichissement des connaissances, encourage la collaboration et permette aux etudiants d’acquerir une autonomie dans la construction de leur savoir. Cet article explique les modalites de conception d’un centre de ressources documentaires et pedagogiques moderne, dont il decrit les differentes caracteristiques.