Libraries have evolved from quiet spaces to study into vibrant, technology-rich community hubs. As libraries continue to embrace digital tools, creating an intuitive user experience (UX) has become essential. Whether it’s a website, a library app, or the physical layout of a library, a well-designed UX can greatly enhance the way users interact with resources and spaces.
In this post, we’ll explore the do’s and don’ts of UX in a library to ensure the creation of an environment that is both welcoming and efficient. The course I took this Spring 2025, Library User Experience, has taught me the items below and I would like to share that knowledge back.
Do’s:
- Prioritize Accessibility
- Accessibility is at the heart of great UX. Whether it’s ensuring that your website follows accessibility guidelines or designing physical spaces for all users, make accessibility a priority.
- Implement screen reader-friendly websites, easy navigation for users with disabilities, and clear signage in your physical space. Ensure your digital tools can be used by patrons with a range of abilities.
- Simplify Navigation
- Digital Spaces: Whether it’s a website, app, or online catalog, make navigation as intuitive as possible. Users should be able to find what they’re looking for without a long search.
- Physical Spaces: Use clear, simple signage to help patrons easily navigate the library. Logical flow and well-marked sections can significantly improve the user experience.
- Ask Yourself “Why?”
- Become curious and child-like. There is a method called the “Why?” method which helps find the main cause of a problem by asking “why” multiple times. It starts with stating the problem and helps uncover the root causes, which can then be solved.
- User Feedback
- Regularly gather user feedback to understand pain points and preferences. This can be done through surveys, interviews, or even informal conversations. Repeat feedback to continuously improve UX and address areas of frustration.
- Clear Communication
- Whether it’s the website, a library signage, or a social media post, ensure that the information provided is clear, concise, and easy to understand. Keep communication simple to ensure everyone, including those unfamiliar with library systems, can navigate services with ease.
Don’ts:
- Overcomplicate the User Interface
- Digital Spaces: Avoid cluttering your library website or app with too many features or distractions. Keep the design clean and organized, and focus on key tasks like searching for books, borrowing materials, and accessing library resources.
- Physical Spaces: Don’t overcrowd the library with too many display units or complicated signs. Make library signs simple and to the point.
- Disregard User Needs in the Physical Space
- A well-designed physical library space is just as crucial as a good digital interface. Don’t forget to consider furniture ergonomics, lighting, and noise control.
- Think about quiet zones for study, collaborative spaces for group work, and accessible seating for those with mobility issues.
- Make It Hard to Find What Users Want
- If your library’s online catalog is difficult to navigate or your shelves aren’t organized logically, patrons may get frustrated. Don’t make it harder than it needs to be for someone to find the materials they need, whether it’s a book, article, or e-resource.
Creating a great UX in libraries—whether digital or physical—requires attention to detail, an understanding of user needs, and an ongoing commitment to improvement. By using this list of do’s and don’ts as a guide, information professionals can create environments that create learning, accessibility, and a good overall user experience in your library.