Enhancing LibGuides Usability and Discoverability Within a Complex Library Presence

Abstract

At the University of Michigan Library, we use Springshare’s LibGuides to manage subject, course, and specialized information guides comprising thousands of individual web pages. While LibGuides can be used to build a robust library website, complete with features for managing electronic reserves and databases, we maintain it as a supplementary tool focused around instruction and guidance. LibGuides is one of several open-source and proprietary components making up our library’s complex web presence. In such a complex online environment, it can be challenging to make LibGuides content discoverable and to present it as a functional, integral part of the whole. Doing so, however, is critical if we are to efficiently connect users to relevant information resources. In the following chapter, we will share examples of how we have integrated LibGuides into our library website and learning management systems (LMS) in order to facilitate access to content through search and discovery.