UK Libraries launches new website
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 25, 2022) — University of Kentucky Libraries (UK Libraries) has launched a new design for its website: https://libraries.uky.edu/. The site was developed in response to library user feedback obtained through previous LibQual surveys and guided by user research conducted by partners at NewCity.
“In the 21st century, a library’s website serves as another branch location, providing access to collections, services and expertise," said Dean of UK Libraries Doug Way. "This new site will facilitate the work of students, faculty, researchers and our community, advancing their scholarship and studies. I am grateful for the team within the Libraries that has spent more than a year bringing this new site into reality."
A major priority for the project was to improve navigation through a clean and cohesive design, making it easier for users to discover the resources, services and programs UK Libraries provides in support of the university’s research, education and service missions. In addition to improved navigation menus, other features of the new design include:
Guided search function
The new site features a redesigned guided search function. From the homepage, a single click will take users directly to InfoKat Discovery, where they can search the library catalog. They can also jump straight to the Database A-Z list, Journals index and ExploreUK from the homepage.
“Bento Box”-style site search feature
The search icon in the upper right-hand corner of every page will allow users to search the UK Libraries website and several of its tools from a single location. Perform a keyword search and jump to results from the library website, InfoKat, Databases, Journals or the library’s extensive collection of Research Guides.
Search tips
Tips for tracking down materials of all types and formats have been included to improve the user experience.
Collection highlights
It is now easier to discover collections and materials by subject, allowing users to more quickly find a broad range of resources for their subject area as well as connect with their subject librarian. Users can also explore the rare and unique materials that set UK Libraries apart in the library’s Kentucky and Appalachia Collections.
Convenient access to services
The new site features spaces, equipment and software; research and scholarship; and teaching support resources and services all conveniently clustered and accessible via the main navigation bar.
Detailed location pages
Improved location pages allow users to find spaces, tools, resources and services in library locations across campus. Find frequently used location-based services, and dive into collections, databases and research guides by subject at every branch library.
Streamlined room reservation process
A “Room Reservations” button on the main navigation bar takes users directly to reservable locations and a calendar of availability.
With the launch of the new website, UK Libraries migrated to a new Drupal content management system (CMS), making it easier to offer high-performance features and functions for users in the future. Although the main URL was retained, this redesign is a comprehensive rewrite and reorganization of content across the UK Libraries website and will affect links to pages individuals may have bookmarked or linked in personal research files or teaching materials.
For any questions regarding the new UK Libraries website, please contact webadmin@l.uky.edu. For research help or additional assistance using library resources and services, contact your librarian.
As the premier research library in the Commonwealth, UK Libraries empowers lifelong learners to discover, create and connect by providing ever-expanding access to quality information and collaborating with academic and creative communities worldwide to advance knowledge, enhance scholarship and preserve the history and culture of the Commonwealth. More information about UK Libraries can be found on its website at https://libraries.uky.edu/.
As the state’s flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders — placing students at the heart of everything we do — and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and health care. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It's all made possible by our people — visionaries, disruptors and pioneers — who make up 200 academic programs, a $476.5 million research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus.
In 2022, UK was ranked by Forbes as one of the “Best Employers for New Grads” and named a “Diversity Champion” by INSIGHT into Diversity, a testament to our commitment to advance Kentucky and create a community of belonging for everyone. While our mission looks different in many ways than it did in 1865, the vision of service to our Commonwealth and the world remains the same. We are the University for Kentucky.