Content: Writing About the Libraries

Our voice, tone, and identity; grammar, a word list, and how to write for and about people.

When writing about the Libraries, assume that your audience knows nothing about our organizational structure. 

To help make it clear the information is coming from the University Libraries, be sure to follow the library’s voice and tone guidelines.

Names

On the library website, we use less formal names:

  • Most preferred: The Libraries
  • Preferred alternative: University Libraries

When not referring to the institution proper, don’t capitalize (for example, “library materials”). Note that "University Libraries" refers to the organization, and so is singular.

Formally, we are the Grand Valley State University Libraries. This may be required on some documents, but should rarely appear on the website.

Specific libraries and locations

Use the full name of the location on first use. For secondary references, consider general terms such as the library or the archive or the collection.

University Libraries Locations

Additional Libraries

Our design system is deeply indebted to the University of Michigan Libraries' Design System.

  • Last Updated: Oct 16, 2024 10:38 AM
  • URL: https://libguides.gvsu.edu/content