To ensure the best possible outcome for a new library website, Libby conducts something called a discovery phase. The discovery phase is extremely beneficial to both developers and patrons because it gathers the information necessary for achieving success. Over the course of two months, about 100 people from Yakima Valley in Washington took part in an online survey or phone interview to discuss the current library website. Listening to what the users like and dislike is crucial to designing and developing a functional site. A few questions that were beneficial to ask were: What was your primary reason to visit the site, what would you like to see improved and what new functional features would you like to suggest? Here is what we found:

The main reason people visit the Yakima Valley library website is to request new books. This information is important because it allows to developers to find out WHY people visit the site and what they look for the most. Other similar features mentioned frequently include searching the online catalog and accessing the portal. When creating their new library website, it is important that these key items are easy to locate and user-friendly.

Another benefit of a discovery survey is to find out what areas people think are important and need to be improved. If something is not working for them on the current site, it is important to make sure it is fixed on the new site. The most frequent elements that people wanted to see improved was the cluttered homepage, event calendar system, and search functionality.

Lastly, asking what functionality features users WISHED that they could have opens a new door of possibilities. As we are designing and developing a new site, making the user experience as seamless as possible by adding helpful new features will leave users happy and more likely to return to the site.

Overall, the complete discovery phase gave us insight into learning more about the community of Yakima Valley and their goals for a new library website. Interested in viewing the full discovery document? Download the PDF!

Georgetown Peabody Public Library came to us for a new website as their old one lacked an engaging design and user- friendly page. With the help of our team, we were able to provide a trend- setting website, which showcases their needs in an engaging and inviting presentation. Here are some examples of what we added to improve their website and increase their library patronage:

“We feel like they not only knew what we wanted, but they also were able to show us what we needed. Communication with them as been, and continues to be easy, and they have been responsive to any problems or questions we have posed. Overall, it was a smooth project with exceptional results. We could not be happier with their work and their professionalism.” 

-Andrea Bunker, Director

Originally, Woburn Public Library’s website was outdated, non-engaging, and lacked simple navigation. With twelve links on their homepage, a stiff layout, and a boring design, their website was not only unappealing but non-user-friendly. Woburn Public Library’s Director, Andrea Bunker, came up with a goal in hopes to achieve a stronger library experience for its patrons. By choosing Libby, she helped the goal of a unique library experience in full effect.

Libby worked to design a homepage that was appealing and simple. By creating fewer Quick Links on Woburn Public Library’s homepage, any confusion while navigating the site was reduced greatly.

Next, to cater to Bunker’s request of creating an engaging library experience, we created individual pages for Kids & Teens. This feature of the website allows a customized experience specific to this age group. Creating the opportunity to feature “Recommended Reads”, events, as well as homework help specific to their learning ability.

Woburn’s new website also holds features that are turning the traditional library experience into a technology based experience. The features of the website are not only simple but easy to use for any patron. With the “Ask a Librarian” form, library-goers can ask Woburn Public Library librarians any questions or concerns and receive answers in an efficient manner. The “Reserve a Pass” feature of Woburn Public Library’s website makes it easily accessible for any Woburn resident with a valid Minuteman Library Network card to reserve any of the local museum passes.

Libby for Libraries offers a wide range of solutions to create a stronger more engaging platform for libraries nationwide. We work to create a user-friendly experience through additional features such as sleek designs, simple navigation tools, event calendars, and forms. Libby for Libraries seeks to create a unique project plan for each client we work this.

In honor of Giving Tuesday, we’ve put together and compiled a list of solutions and advice that we recommend to libraries to help improve their donations. We’ve curated this list of helpful tips and resources to make sure your library is taking advantage of every donation and fundraising opportunity.

This White Paper Reviews:

• Online Donations
• Using Call-To-Actions
• Selecting Images and Messaging
• Encouraging Pledges
• and so much more!

Using the form on the right download the white paper, Improving Your Library Fundraising & Online Donations, to find out how your library can start raising your fundraising!

Is your library considering hiring an agency or choosing a new website solution? Many libraries use the Request for Proposal (or RFP) process to help them define their goals and select a vendor to work on their website. This FREE guide will help you and your staff put together an RFP or RFQ (Request for Quote) that you can use to solicit vendors to build you the best website possible!

What You’ll Learn

In this guide, we will cover the following:

• What a RFP/RFQ is and why you might consider using one (or not!)
• The best ways to distribute your RFP to potential vendors
• How to define your goals in a way respondents will understand
• Why it’s important to pick a budget
• Figuring out what timeline you can expect for completion of your website project
• What your library might need beyond just a website
• Sorting out what your technical requirements might be
• Establishing design trends that you want to achieve in your own website design
• Setting the expectation when it comes to getting your staff trained and comfortable with using the new site
• What to look for in a vendor, and how to choose one
• And much, much more!