Better Together: Leveraging Strengths to Improve the End User Experience

Users‟ satisfaction with the library is often linked to their interaction with its technology such as the library\u27s web site, wireless access and desktop computing. In many libraries, the responsibility for these technologies is shared by the library and information technology staff. Whether operating as combined or separate entities, communication and collaboration among library and IT staff is necessary in order to provide an optimal user experience as well as seamless support. Organizational differences and priorities may become barriers to a successful partnership in achieving these goals. This session will detail the collaboration between the Library and Information Technology Services (ITS) staff to transition the Augustana College library web site to Drupal, the campus content management system. Following a brief history of past joint projects and the administration of Drupal at Augustana, the presenters will chronicle the preparation, design, and implementation of the library\u27s new web site. Challenges, surprises, and lessons learned will be shared along with discussion on post launch issues. The presenters will also highlight planning between the Library and ITS on future joint projects including mobile site development, learning management system customization, and single sign-on (SSO) to integrate services (e.g. proxy, Moodle) as well as new opportunities for the library to promote ITS initiatives and assist ITS in the education and support of end users. ABOUT THE PRESENTERS: Lisa Brunick, Reference Librarian / Instruction Coordinator, Mikkelsen Library, Augustana College; Donovan DeJong, Web Systems Administrator \u26 Trainer, Information Technology Services, Augustana College