[WEB4LIB] Re: Library home pages

[Tami-Jo Eckley]

I think that the use of "library jargon" is an important one to keep in 
mind.  However, speaking from an academic library, I believe students should 
learn some of this jargon.  In a public library setting, it may be more 
plausible to use less intimidating terms.  Another point:  Phrases like 
"Electronic Resources" or "Periodical Holdings" may have clearer 
alternatives but I am not so sure any library should be changing the word 
"Catalog."  This is one word that any library user should learn.

Tami-Jo Eckley
Electronic Services & Media Librarian
Manhattanville College Library
Purchase, New York 10577
http://www.mville.edu/library

On Wed, 12 May 1999, Jacqueline Lesch wrote:

> Shane Nackerud wrote:
> > 
> > Hello everyone--
> > 
> >         The University of Minnesota Libraries are in the middle of a total web
> > site redesign.  One question we have been grappling with is what links
> > should be on the home page?  What services and research tools should
> > receive the highest priority?  The catalog and indexes/databases are
> > obvious choices, but what else?  
> 
> While normally a WEB4LIB lurker, I thought I would voice an opinion
> here. 
> Yes, the catlog and indexes/databases are obvious choices, however, what
> do these terms really mean to our library patrons and website users?
> Library jargon can be very frustrating to non-librarians, especially on
> a website where you cannot walk up to a librarian and ask for
> assistance. Terms like: OPAC, Catalog, Databases, & Electronic Indexes
> are best reserved staff meetings and should be replaced on websites more
> desciptive titles or phrases.  
> 
> -- 
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> Jacqueline Lesch
> Technology Administrator
> Fullerton Campus
> SJSU SLIS
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> jlesch at wahoo.sjsu.edu
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