Best Practices for Subject/Course/General LibGuides at USF

Links and Assets

  • Always search the asset database before creating a new asset! (See Creating and Reusing Links for instructions)
  • Links to resources should be added as link assets.
  • Give each link a description. Shorter descriptions are generally better and in keeping with the goal of less text-heavy guides
  • Always have the description display beneath item title. Never have it hidden behind a pop up button as this isn't accessible.
  • Reuse link assets as often as possible. This makes it easier to batch update.
  • Always link to the specific page that will be needed by the user; refrain from linking to the main page of a large and potentially confusing website.
  • Do not use linked text in rich text boxes. If you add links in rich-text boxes, the asset manager cannot read and manage the links. Instead, use links to link to resources in your guides
  • Links should be descriptive. Do not name a link “Click here”

Reusing Content

  • When identical material is called for in multiple guides at the box or page level, consider re-using entire boxes or pages.
  • Also consider reusing content and links from your colleagues' guides. Look for timely, properly formatted and accessible content to reuse

Link Arrangment and Descriptions

  • Avoid describing the database asset using the default scope note from the vendor. Often this type of text is wordy and full of jargon. Aim for clear language with just a few sentences so the reader can scan the description quickly.
  • Consider how the database description will read when reused on other guides. Subject specific acronyms and abbreviations may confuse readers who are unfamiliar with the subject.
  • Sort Lists of Resources. Students tend to use the first resources listed, it is generally preferable to list them in order of importance rather than alphabetically.
  • Think about other ways to arrange the sources. For example: in order by importance or value, as you see it; from broad to narrow in subject scope; by date coverage; etc.
  • It is also desirable to keep lists of resources short – maybe to the top five key resources featured prominently. One may also consider breaking long lists of resources into different boxes based on similar content type.
  • Usability tests show that students are confused by excessive content. So, tabs, text, lists, number of pages and boxes should be kept to a minimum. 
  • There's no magic number, but if you have more than 7 or 8 resources in a single content box you should think about how it can divided into more than one box. 
  • Strive for usability, not comprehensiveness.
  • Minimize Print Resource Lists. The best resource may be print. However, long lists of resources inaccessible via the web will frustrate or confuse most users.
  • Avoid Feedback Tools. For the most part student comments, ratings, recommendations should be avoided. Students are seeking advice from experts not from other students