[Web4lib] Results of Informal Poll regarding library website collection guidelines

[cecily walker]

First, let me thank those of you who responded to my call for information
regarding library website collection guidelines. I thought it might be
useful to publish a quick summary of responses. Approximately 10 librarians
responded to my call for information, including four from this list.

Content Creation:
* Most libraries do not have formal guidelines for creating website
content.

* Content is usually created based on user need and/or interest; e.g.,
information about natural disasters, political information, tax
information, or local events that will generate heightened patron interest.

* One library replied that their impetus for creating content comes from
the communication needs of the different departments or divisions within
the library

* One library replied that their content is organized into specific site
sections, and each section is governed by an individual content plan that
determines in scope/out of scope content.

* One library publishes their website collection guidelines on their public
website as part of their general collection development guidelines.

Weeding Content:
* Few libraries have a formal process in place for weeding content.

* One library responded that following an upcoming revamp, they will use a
combination of site analytics, user need, and usability studies to
determine how long content remains on their site.

* One library responded that they never weed website content.

* Of those that monitor page hits, one library responded that they
currently monitor hits on a monthly basis. Content (i.e., subject guides)
is then revised/deleted/added  as indicated by use, timeliness, revelancy
and accuracy.

* Most respondents stated that they do occasionally review website content,
but the review times vary from monthly to once or twice a year.

Cecily Walker
Auxiliary Librarian
Vancouver Public Library
cecilwal at vpl.ca