Ten years ago, many library websites consisted of a picture of the library, the library’s address and phone number, and not much else. Now, many library websites are truly functioning as a sort of “virtual branch” – helping local libraries connect to their communities.
We have talked about the Kansas Libraries on the Web project here on this blog before. It’s a project that was created to help small public libraries easily maintain an up-to-date, useful, and attractive web presence. We’re seeing a lot of great content and innovative ideas and thought it would be fun to highlight some examples here.
Many libraries in Kansas have a physical Kansas room on-site, which includes local history and documentation. Atchison Public Library has gone beyond that to start creating a virtual Kansas room, too.
Also, check out the recent post, What the director is reading, which inspired some online book discussion. And also see the online storytime info – wow!!
The smallest library in the NEKLS region has one of the liveliest websites! Moving images, local weather, and a “word of the day” feature add interest and content to the site.
The library staff spice up the clean look of the site with images. The Morrill Public Library site is regularly updated. All of the posts are categorized and can be browsed under the Library News and Views section.
The library recently encouraged contributions to a local cookbook and posted a historical photograph, creating a true feeling of local connection.
This site is regularly updated and visually appealing, too. The library staff recently used the website to give special thanks to a local family.
Many libraries promote upcoming events on their websites. Richmond, however, took that idea to the next level and posted photographs as a follow-up to a recent Mother’s Day event.
When the Mary Cotton Library staff received word that the local sales tax increase vote for the library had passed, they posted the exciting news with a big note of thanks on their website. Other recent content includes the story of a young boy’s job shadowing at the library and memorials.
Summer Reading Program is on everyone’s mind this time of year and Seneca Free Public Library uses their website to promote this year’s events.
Web 2.0 is a popular topic in the library world and Tonganoxie is a small library making a big impact using some 2.0 tools. Browse their site for lots of examples. Be sure to read about the online book discussion group they are starting.
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