MSU Libraries launches new website
EAST LANSING, Mich., Aug. 2023 – This month the MSU Libraries is officially launching a new website that offers an updated look and improved functionality, including the new VuFind-based public catalog. The new website can be accessed at lib.msu.edu.
In addition to the more modern appearance of the interface, users will find new site architecture for easier navigation, increased functionality to support discovery of library materials and improved visibility of highly used library services and other library information. The VuFindpublic catalog project, which was launched in May 2023, complements the increased functionality of the overall website by providing library patrons a more comprehensive and intuitive search interface.
The main website update was initiated in summer 2021, with members of the Libraries’ User Experience and Web Services Unit along with members of the Digital Initiatives Division coming together to form what is known as the Libraries’ Drupal Team. With the primary goal of redesigning the Libraries’ main website, the Drupal Team began by evaluating what was then the current website, specifically looking at the website architecture, interface, features and overall aesthetics, and utilizing research tools including comparative analyses, benchmarking and website analytics. Accessibility considerations were also a large factor in the evaluation and redesign process as part of the Libraries’ commitment to DEI initiatives; the Drupal Team worked closely with the Libraries’ Accessibility Unit to identify and address accessibility barriers and implement techniques that support the design and development of accessible websites to ensure that the Libraries’ digital services are accessible to a diverse group of users.
MSU Libraries Head of User Experience Joshua Sanchez emphasized the importance of the users in considering the website redesign. “We have prioritized user engagement and involvement throughout our process,” Sanchez said. “The feedback that we’ve received from our many users has driven our design choices, and we’ve done our very best to improve the site to meet the needs of our many users. We are proud to say that the site is designed and built for the library and our users, by the library and our users.”
The Drupal Team also maintained a commitment to open engagement and communication with stakeholders of the Libraries’ main website throughout the redesign process. Research and design documentation, including analyses documents, remain open and available to staff through the Libraries’ intranet. In addition, open website update sessions were held bi-weekly, which allowed staff to engage with the Drupal Team and provide feedback throughout the process.
MSU Libraries Interim Dean Terri Miller expressed enthusiasm for the website redesign. “I’m very pleased with the work done by the Drupal Team to make our website more responsive to the needs of our users,” Miller said. “Not only did the website receive an upgrade in terms of aesthetics, but the redesign is also much more intuitive and navigable with the much-improved site infrastructure. I’m also excited to see how patrons interact with the new public catalog.”
The MSU Libraries are at the center of academic life at Michigan State University, providing expertise, collections and infrastructure for discovery and creation. The Libraries facilitate connections that support research, teaching and learning in our local and global communities. The Libraries also promote equal access to information and spaces for all and lead meaningful initiatives in accessibility, diversity, equity and inclusion.