Web Design Trends in Academic Libraries—A Longitudinal Study

ABSTRACT

This study examines several key design elements of 37 academic library Web sites (members of the Association of Southeastern Research Libraries) and how they have changed between 2012 and 2015. While several studies have reviewed library Web sites looking for common design elements and content, the present work may be the first to look at the design elements of a large group of library Web sites over time. This study has two main goals: to present an objective analysis of the navigation and search interface designs at research university library Web sites, and to assess the usage of Web-scale discovery systems and content management systems in libraries. Other areas explored include when sites were most recently redesigned and whether sites have adopted a mobile-friendly, responsive design. Notable findings include a very high usage of Web-scale discovery systems, an increasing adoption of open source content management systems, and increasing implementation of responsive design. Also noted was a strong and growing standardization in navigation design. This study concludes with a review of the trends and discussion of current design patterns in academic library Web sites.

KEYWORDS:

• academic libraries
• content management systems
• library Web sites
• responsive design
• search design
• Web design
• Web site navigation
• Web-scale discovery

Additional information

Notes on contributors

David J. Comeaux

David J. Comeaux is the Web Development Librarian at LSU Libraries. David's work includes the overall design and management of the Libraries’ Web sites, and his research interests include Web usability, Web design in libraries, e-textbook usage in academics, digital libraries, Drupal in libraries, and Web accessibility.