Usability of University Library Home Pages in Southern Africa: a case study

Abstract

This is a case study of eight Southern African university library home pages. Its purpose is to trace usability from the 1990s in the context of limited information and computer literacy and English skills. Using the Wayback Machine, WAVE, version 4.0 and Readability test tools and manual checks, the evaluative criteria included accessibility, readability, library-user interaction facilities, currency and visual appeal and innovativeness. The main hurdles established are: (i) lack of alternative texts for images, (ii) use of terminology likely to be misunderstood and availability of content not understandable to all users, (iii) invisibility of cutting edge resources and services and (iv) outdated information and use of strenuous color schemes. Usability improvements included online forms to ease library-user communication and increasing adoption of attractive resources and services. The study concludes that the usability of the home pages beyond 2008 depends on rigorous implementation of usability standards and giving prominence to innovative resources and services.

‘To be understood as to understand’: A readability analysis of public library acceptable use policies

“…In the case of the library and information science profession, however, research into the readability of materials and documentation in the library – such as policy documents like the AUP – is limited. Readability testing studies have been conducted with regards to student research (Gray, 2012) and university library websites (Lim, 2010; Muswazi, 2009). A comprehensive but easily read AUP is encouraged and promoted by library groups (American Library Association, 2012; CILIP, 2009).…”

Evaluating the usability of COMSATS Institute of Information Technology library website: a case study

“…Websites have become one of academic libraries' most commonly used means of communicating with patrons (Popp, 2001). Muswazi (2009) declared that the purpose of a university library home page is to facilitate and expand access to knowledge, teaching and research resources. Kim (2011, p. 67) wrote that, "University library websites enable users to optimize their time by allowing them to access information whenever and wherever needed".…”