[WEB4LIB] should the library webmaster be a librarian?

[Jane Ratner]

I believe that it isn't necessary for the "webmaster" to be a librarian if
the webmaster's job is defined as technical in nature (composing pages,
porting to the server, maintaining statistics, writing PERL scripts, etc.)

If the webmaster is a non-librarian, though, I believe it to be equally
important that they work under the supervision of a librarian who will
monitor content of the site and ease of use for inexperienced patrons,
particularly in a public library setting.

I have a great deal of experience working with "brand new" web users -- as
probably most of you do, too.  I have observed that sometimes the
prettiest sites are hardest for new users to get around on, and the least
intuitive.  Librarians who are used to working with their patrons can
bring a knowledge of content and usability to the web design process that
often the most skilled computer professional cannot.  However, it is the
responsibility of the librarian to know as much about the web
design process as possible, though, so s/he can work in an informed way
with the computer person and not ask things of the computer specialist
that are impossible or difficult to attain.  And librarians need to be
watchful for the (rare) computer person who will try to dominate sites
based not on content or mission but on design considerations.  Sadly, I
have seen that happen (not at my home library, fortunately).

This is an interesting question, Mary Beth.  Thank you for asking it.  I
am very interested in reading the replies that are coming in.


Jane Ratner
Willard Public Library
Battle Creek, Michigan