We have multiple platforms that serve different purposes. It’s important that similar content is co-located so users can more easily navigate and discover resources. It also makes it easier for us to manage our various kinds of content.

The library website should be used for content focused on current patron needs (information about services, locations, etc.).

a) Core Content – managed by the Web Services Librarian

• Information about central services and resources that are used across library units (for example, delivery services, technology resources). This content should be organized according to user tasks and needs which may not map neatly to our internal organizational chart structure.

b) Special Content – managed by designated individuals or groups

• Information about projects and initiatives, news and events, and administrative areas (for example, staff directory and homepage ads (Web Services Librarian), strategic planning (Dean's Office))

c) Unit Content – managed by individual units

• Information about a particular public-facing unit or library (for example, Scholarly Communications or Special Collections and University Archives).

LibGuides should be used for content that’s “how-to” in nature and connected to GVSU's curriculum. Guides should direct users to appropriate library resources for subject areas, for a class, or class assignment. Guides can also contain content that instructs users on research methods and tools.

LibAnswers should be used for content that is both (a) core content and (b) takes the form of questions and answers that can be searched by users both on the Library Help pages, our chat widget, and also can be repurposed across other University Libraries virtual services. 

LibAnswers also hosts the Knowledge Market's Resource Market, a self-service tool for helping with research, writing, citations, speech, and digital skills work at the University.

LibAnswers also hosts an internal knowledge base that collects questions and answers about many of the operational tasks of the University Libraries. While the content of the internal knowledge base is primarily focused on tasks for the LASS department, all staff have access.

The SharePoint site (LINK) should be used for any content where the primary audience is us. This includes documents and internal communications.

Content that doesn’t currently serve an important purpose (whether for patrons or for staff) but has continued value for historical reasons is usually better suited for Scholarworks@GVSU or the University Archives. 

If you have a need that doesn’t fit neatly into one of these categories, contact the Web Services Librarian for advice.