Link to Website/Write-Up

 https://crosscreeklibrary.my.canva.site/copy-of-burch-library-website

    When designing my school library website, my principle thoughts lied with my userbase.  Thinking back over my learning this semester- particularly with the website evaluation assignment- I realized that even the most beautiful and expertly-crafted website is useful if, and only if, it is accessible to its intended audience.  With my role as librarian for Cross Creek High School, I realized that I needed to center the needs and preferences of my students when working on my design. 

For that reason, I opted not to select a more traditional, page-based design.  My students (and their community!) largely use their cell phones to browse the internet and access information, so it was paramount that whatever site I created be well-suited to mobile display.  Ultimately, I settled on Canva, as its mobile-site preview feature allowed me to verify that my design was translating well to the mobile screen.  Past that, Canva is also a program that I am largely familiar with, so between these factors, it seemed the most logical choice.  

As a website-creation tool, Canva is interesting in that it produces a contiguously-scrolling site, rather than separated pages.  While it does include a navigation bar- a necessity- the more informal style of presentation required a certain consideration to the order and flow of my sections, as well as a strong, unifying aesthetic.  I opted for a more modern style, using our school colors and sharp, bold shapes to draw attention.  My font selection was curated for a mix of aesthetics and readability.  Careful attention was paid to contrast between letters and background, as well as space between elements. 

In terms of content, I opted to prioritize resources my students will use.  While I do have resources that benefit faculty, I put out a weekly newsletter with those resources, so this was less of a consideration.  My home page is meant to be bright and inviting, while also prominently displaying our county’s mission statement, to keep it in alignment with other RCSS websites.  Following this, I created an introductory page with my picture, contact information, and a brief message for students, parents, and faculty outlining my library ethos and commitment to inclusive programming. 

The third page hosts my video introduction, and serves as a modular space where I can announce new programming, post book talks, or otherwise make use of video media.  The fourth page is host to several resources, aimed primarily at my students.  I have a collection of resource and citation tools, including some custom-designed handouts, information on how to access free Public Library materials through the PINES Play program, a link to a book request form, and my digital curation project (aimed at teachers).  I could easily add more resources to this page, as needed. 

My library Events page is currently dedicated to my Half-Million Minute Challenge, which uses the Beanstack app to track reading time.  I have not only information about the challenge, but also an updating progress bar and a list of prizes students are eligible to win.  My final page focuses on our catalogue.  I had difficulty linking it directly, due to the single-sign-on method of access, but I included step-by-step instructions for access, as well as an advertisement for our newly-purchases eBook collection. 

Ultimately, I believe my design choices best reflect the needs and preferences of my student body, and will effectively serve to communicate valuable information to the audience that needs it most.  I plan to keep this website up to date throughout the year with new information, making it a hub for all things Media at CCHS.