Google Sites for Library
Developing Internal Sites for Staff
Library staff are charged as being veritable keyholders of knowledge and community information. Professional development and learning opportunities are prevalent in their field. Therefore clear informational resources simplify their task and are necessary for consolidating opportunities. Google Sites provides Google Workspace powered libraries with a website building platform which is easy to manage. Portals for resources and learning can be quickly developed and maintained in-house.
Sample Library Intranet Features
A library intranet is a private website that is only accessible to library staff. It is a great way to share information and resources with staff, and to collaborate on projects. The content on a library intranet can vary depending on the needs of the library, but some common types of content include:
Policies and procedures: This includes information about the library's policies and procedures, such as circulation policies, privacy policies, and staff handbooks.
Staff directories: This includes contact information for staff members, such as their email addresses, phone numbers, and job titles.
Training materials: This includes training materials for staff, such as tutorials, presentations, and checklists.
Calendars and schedules: This includes calendars of events, such as staff meetings, training sessions, and library hours.
Announcements and news: This includes announcements about library events, new resources, and changes to policies.
Discussion forums: This includes forums where staff can discuss topics related to the library, such as new resources, upcoming events, and technical issues.
Reference materials: This includes reference materials, such as bibliographies, indexes, and directories.
Additional Benefits of Having a Library Intranet
Improved communication: The intranet can be used to improve communication between staff members. This can help to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that information is shared quickly and efficiently.
Enhanced collaboration: The intranet can be used to enhance collaboration between staff members. This can help to improve the quality of work and to ensure that projects are completed on time.
Increased productivity: The intranet can help to increase productivity by providing staff with access to the information and resources they need. This can save staff time and help them to focus on their work.
Reduced costs: The intranet can help to reduce costs by eliminating the need for printed materials. This can save the library money on printing, postage, and storage costs.
Designing Library Community Resource Sites
Libraries in the United States and internationally are hubs for community and area resources. Community resource Google Sites are an efficient means to post opportunities. Since the learning curve is particularly approachable and the interface familiar, library services staff have little resistance to creating Google Sites. In addition, Kirksville Web Design can create library brand templates and entire professional sites safely uploaded to the Library Workspace domain.
Working with Georgia Public Library Service
Our Google Sites project for Continuing Education within the Georgia Public Library Service Google Workspace domain was a wonderful project that involved many components to consolidate essential resources. Within a short 2 month timeline we developed, revised and integrated to bring the Google Site to launch. Here are some of the features of this project:
Private sub-site for staff contact group
Constant Contact newsletter integration
Custom branded theme inspired by GPLS color palette, social media assets and library marketing materials
Google Calendars
Quicklinks to scholarship resources, complete with FAQs
Testimonial from Dorcas Davis, Director of Continuing Education at Georgia Public Library Service
I recently had the pleasure of working with Kyle on building the Georgia Public Library Service's Continuing Edcuation website and I have to say, I couldn't be happier with the end result. Kyle was incredibly helpful throughout the entire process, from brainstorming ideas to making sure every detail was just right. He was always fair in his suggestions and recommendations, and I felt like he truly had the ageny's best interests in mind. Most importantly, working with Kyle felt safe and secure. I never had any concerns about the security of the website or my personal information. Overall, I highly recommend Kyle for anyone looking to build a website. He's a true professional and a pleasure to work with.
Continuing Education Professional Development Portal for GPLS