When students and faculty return to campus this month, they will see significant changes to the NIU Libraries’ website and have easier access to library information.
The Libraries’ website will feature a new design and new layout, which will make accessing information easier for users. In addition to the aesthetic changes, the Libraries’ website also will feature LibGuides, a web 2.0 library interface that allows librarians to create dynamic content.
Patrons can either link directly to the LibGuides page or use the Libraries’ “Research by Subject” link to access databases. There, patrons can search for subject-specific resources by clicking on a subject heading. Patrons also will be able to search for information posted by a specific faculty librarian or library department.
Perhaps the most useful aspect to LibGuides is that it allows librarians to create content for a specific class, research topic or user group.
For example, if a librarian is working with a class on a research project, the librarian will have the ability to post links to useful websites, tutorials and other information that goes beyond the standard scholarly database.
For more information on LibGuides, contact a subject specialist librarian or e-mail TJ Lusher, assistant dean, Automated Library Systems, at tlusher@niu.edu.
