School library web site terminology

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to look at how varying terminology is used on school library web sites and how that compares to student preferences.Design/methodology/approachProvides research conduced by surveying practicing school librarians and k‐12 students.FindingsTerminology varies greatly on school library web sites. Further, students prefer common language use.Practical implicationsPracticing librarians may consider revising their web sites in order to make them more accessible for their students.Originality/valueThis paper provides original research into school library web sites, an area that is lacking.

Libraries of Babel: exploring library language and its suitability for the community

“…There is abundant literature that discusses the necessity of selecting appropriate language in a variety of media to cater to the diverse needs of library clients. There is a consensus among studies of library websites that the use of technical terms and jargon can cause frustration and confusion, inhibit effective communication and present a barrier to information access (Jurkowski, 2007;Polger, 2011;Spivey, 2000). Studies on general library communication are in agreement, suggesting that clients experience alienation, impeded understanding and wariness towards libraries when jargon and technical terms are used (Cana et al, 2005;Chaudhry and Choo, 2000;Naismith and Stein, 1989;Usherwood, 1981).…”

“…Boldyreff et al (2001) take a similar stance against the use of jargon and technical terms, but concede that these may be unavoidable for terms that lack a concise alternative. Jurkowski (2007) further argues that the use of proper, accurate terminology is often necessary, if not crucial, for preventing inconsistencies and confusion across different library websites. Similarly, Naismith and Stein (1989) consider the purpose and function of jargon, suggesting that it labels complex terms in a shorthand manner, thereby reducing the necessity of repeatedly redefining common terms.…”

“…Reflecting diverse user communities A majority of these studies, across all media of communication, focus on the language comprehension and preference of academic students, with many concluding that library terms are outdated for younger generations (Jurkowski, 2007;Naismith and Stein, 1989;O'Neill and Guilfoyle, 2015;Stempler and Polger, 2013). Boldyreff et al (2001) emphasise the diversity of clients who use public institutions' websites, including disabled individuals, and the need to address this diversity in website design, while Spivey (2000) observes that students using academic library websites remotely are often from different cultural spheres, an additional challenge for the library.…”

“…This phenomenon was common, with different terms for audio books, borrowing, help desks, membership and genealogy. According to Jurkowski (2007), consistent language between different libraries is important to ensure ease of use and accessibility. This is especially true for individuals moving between districts and for children moving between school and public libraries or students moving between academic and public libraries.…”

“…Previous research on library language has focused on client comprehension of technical terms (Cana et al, 2005;Jurkowski, 2007;Polger, 2011), catering to culturally diverse clients (Aihong, 2009;Baughman and Parker, 2013;Spivey, 2000), and the incidence of bilingual signage in New Zealand libraries (Evans, 2011). As yet, no studies have analysed the multiple aspects of language in library signage, handouts and websites, or considered whether these language aspects suitably reflect the various demographic groups that public libraries in New Zealand serve.…”