Guelph Public Library Website UX Study - Final Report

Abstract

In September 2017, the UX Team explored user perception of the newly redesigned Guelph Public Library (GPL) website. We conducted in-person interviews and usability tests with 25 participants at 5 different GPL branches. Based on our findings we recommend: (1) ensuring important information is displayed above the fold; (2) improving the colour contrast between text and background; (3) avoiding using library jargon like ‘eLibrary’ and ‘eResources’; (4) improving the structure of the persistent navigation menu by making mutually exclusive and exhaustive categories; (5) explaining the difference between ‘catalogue,’ ‘resources’, and ‘website’ on the search drop-down menu; and (6) including the word ‘Search’, or a search bar, on the homepage. Not all users associate a magnifying glass symbol with the option to search.