Real EZ Web Pilot Program

Web Application: Eligibility Requirements

1. The library must be a REAL member, certified to receive state aid and with a current technology plan on file at the State Library.

2. The library does not have an existing website or the current website does not contain the basic elements recommended for public library websites. The highest priority will be given to libraries without a website.

3. The library must subscribe to the REAL EZ Web listserv, and/or wiki, or other communication tools available.

4. The library must send appropriate staff members to attend MOREnet’s one day training for REAL EZ Web.

5. The library agrees to maintain and update the site at least quarterly.

6. Using the software that is part of the program, the library must be able to provide documentation of output measures giving evidence of service delivery such as number of searches conducted, number of sessions held, Web page hits, etc. The software will provide Web statistics by Hour, Day, Week and Month as illustrated at http://www.more.net/ar/analog/.

7. The library must be able to measure the effectiveness of this project through evaluation of usage statistics, patron comments, surveys or other mechanisms that illustrate project outcomes such as changes in attitudes, extending library access through after hours use, etc.

8. The library agrees to participate in the project for the initial two years which will be fully subsidized by the State Library. After two years, REAL EZ Web will be reevaluated to determine its effectiveness and how best to continue funding the program. It is hoped the program will remain fully funded beyond the initial two years; however, in the event of funding cuts or other revenue losses, program fees based on a library’s ability to pay, may need to be assessed in the future.
   

Basic Website Elements for Public Libraries

The Basics: Content

1. Library name, address, for each branch including city, state, and zip code

2. Phone number(s) by branch and service (include area code)

3. Hours of operation for each branch

4. Mission statement, possibly including future goals.

5. Library policies (especially for library cards, loan periods, use of the meeting room, computer use, and unattended children)

6. Reference services and special collections

7. New items on the site; upcoming or calendar of events

8. Provide link and search tips to the online catalog, if available from automation vendor

9. Provide link to subscription resources, such as the online databases available to REAL members, and to World Cat for Show Me the World

10. Provide remote access to subscription resources whenever technically and fiscally possible.

The Basics: Design

1. Consistent format/background/logo/navigation within a library system.  Branches link back to main branch, and main branch links to branches

2. Appropriate fonts and web-safe colors

3. Feedback or comment form: fill-in form or mailto message

4. URL on each page with revision date

5. Uses metatags on key pages to help find the pages with search engines such as Google and also correctly annotated in the search summary listing

6. The 10 second rule applies: a visitor should be able to find a link to the library catalog, locations, programs, resources, in less than 10 seconds from any page on your site

7. Includes a site map, with a link to the site map on every page

8. Avoids library jargon, e.g., provide a link to the library catalog, not to the OPAC

9. Pages load quickly by limiting the use of images and text graphics; compressed file formats for all images

10. Avoids flashing objects and multi-colored text that distract a visitor's attention

11. Avoids pages longer than two screens; most users will not scroll down to find information

12. Pages are accessible to users with disabilities.  Websites should meet accessibility guidelines as specified in the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (http://www.w3.org/TR/WCAG10/checkpoint-list.html ) and Federal Section 508 Standards for Electronic and Information Technology http://www.access-board.gov/sec508/guide/1194.22.htm

13. Pages render correctly in multiple browsers, e.g. Internet Explorer, Netscape, Mozilla Firefox, Opera, and Mac (Safari)

Adapted from “Website Design Guidelines for Public Libraries” originally prepared for the Milton Public Library, Milton, MA.

REAL EZ Web Application [ PDF ]

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