Gateshead Libraries first got involved with the Affino Website Platform back in 2003. The website was initially launched with much fanfare at the January 2004 BETT Show at Olympia. Over the years, the site has picked up a number of accolades, including a 5 star rating by the UK Public Libraries Site. The rating system has recently changed, but Gateshead Libraries is still singled out for special mention:
"Our gold stars go to those sites which, in our opinion, possess an extra sparkle that enlivens the visitor’s experience. These are the libraries that show a bit of flair in presenting interesting and original content online. Gateshead Libraries still leads the field in our opinion."
Regardless of the excellent depth and breadth of services represented, the old design was starting to show its age - both in terms of format and overall look and feel. On our recommendation, Gateshead commissioned the services of designer Mark Foster of Urban Platform, who was responsible for the excellent Rotherham ’Ask My Community’ website. Mark both designed and implemented the new website, taking in the full force of his experience of delivering 3 different versions of the ’Ask My Community’ website.
At Comrz, we have always favoured modern and elegant design, and Mark is very much a leading proponent of that approach, as can be seen on both of his recent sites.
"Gateshead Libraries has used the Affino system since 2003 and it has been a real asset to our online offer. Because the system is regularly updated it has ensured that our web site remains cutting edge. We feel the system offers excellent value for money and offers our customers a fresh approach to library services online." said Rachel Peacock, Information and Systems Manager at Gateshead Libraries
The Key Considerations of the design were to make a very broad and deep range of services seem simple and easily accessible. The new website would need to excel in clearly and efficiently communicating current and forthcoming services and events, whilst at the same time giving unparalleled ease of access to ongoing Gateshead Library Services.
Navigation has been ramped up with improved Main Menu and Dynamic Menus on the Key Nav Buttons. The ’Virtual Library Services’ which were previously more tricky to access, are now front and centre on the new navigation.
The Home Page is split into 3 key areas - ’Coming Soon’, ’News Highlights’ and the new ’Recommended’ scrolling carousel - which is now a key component in alerting Library users to latest books, music and film and useful services.
Rachel Peacock, Gail Homles and their team at Gateshead Libraries have done an excellent job of re-structuring and simplifying the existing content and structure - to make the website experience yet more simple and effortless.
We have always held the opinion that Gateshead Libraries was a flagship for how all public services websites should be delivered. This is now more true than ever as we feel that the new contemporary aesthetics finally perfectly match Gateshead’s ambitions.
