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Content Design Navigation Enhancements |
Grand Rapids Public LibraryContent
DesignThe overall design of this website is very effective. It provides its patrons with an attractive entry page with navigation, colors, and graphics. The entire site has a consistent feel throughout. The font size, style, and color provide patrons with ease of reading, drawing the eye to special areas when needed. The background color is a simple gray which keeps the focus on the main content which is full of bold colors. A large photograph spans the website's entry page (see photo to the below). This design reflects the site's purpose which is one of knowledge. The overall appearance of this site is simple but simulating.
NavigationThe navigation on this site is quite effective. The entry page is separated into three sections. The first section provides the Library's name, important message area, library catalog and access to patron's account information. The second section provides the navigation to different categories that a patron may want to visit; Your Library, Research, Collections, and Services. The last section provides patrons with upcoming event information and these items changes each time a patron accesses the website. Now the navigation section is quite unique. As show above there is a large, long photo of the main library's globe chandelier. This photo is divided into four blocks. This technique is used to provide information to its patrons through a unique navigation bar. Each time a patron runs the cursor over a word in the navigation bar, information appears in the photo block directly above. This design provides its patrons additional assistance without cluttering the entry page. These sections are also color coordinated. If I entered into the 'Your Library' area the navigation bar is purple as well as any additional elements of that page. Of course, this website also provides its users with a 'library catalog' and detailed directions to each of its seven branches! EnhancementsThe Grand Rapids Public Library website contains many content enhancements some of which are listed below.
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Litehouse Award |
This website contains high quality information - it's very useful and interesting. The authority is clear immediately - this is a public library website serviced by Grand Rapids Public Library. The content throughout the entire site is objective - it doesn't sway one way or the other. The entry page provides a clear gateway to the Library's catalog and patron's accounts. All information is timely and current. Two advertisements are of upcoming author visits. Every patron who accesses the website is presented with current information. The depth of the website is extensive. Information can be gathered on many subjects. The site provides its patrons with special resources for example, finding out about local clubs, having books delivered to your home, etc. The site also contains a mix of content formats - text, photographs, and graphics. All the information is provided to the users in a logical format which is easy to grasp and process. All links are annotated and organized in a logical manner.
