Whether it is in the physical building or its online spaces, Lauren has focused on creating library experiences that fit patron wants and needs.
Digital Wayfinding
Lauren investigated, created, and successfully trialed an interactive touchscreen wayfinding directory for the University Library, a 1967 4-story building. The application was inspired by and built on a template designed for UAlbany’s Campus Center.
Library System Statuses
"Is Facebook down" trended on Google, October 4, 2021, when Facebook became temporarily globally unavailable. Web-users proactively seek information when they encounter issues online. System statuses are one way libraries can leverage this behavior to share changes to resources or services and improve transparency, reference, and the user experience.
Library Renovation
As Acting Head Librarian at Sotheby's Institute of Art, Lauren participated in a large-scale renovation of the Institute's New York library. Working directly with the architect, the architect's assistant and designer, as well as the space planning committee, she researched and advised on the plans for the library layout and equipment to create user-centered spaces.
Website Design
Library website design has been on Lauren's agenda since working at Albany Law School, where she participated in research for the Website Working Group. Lauren assisted in the redesign and maintenance of the SIA NY Library's website from actual hand-coded design in Adobe Dreamweaver to tracking performance using Google Analytics. She also maintains other web properties, such as this website and a history blog. In collaboration with the Website Developer/Designer at UAlbany, she led a website redesign project. This redesign provided improved accessibility, security, and design for library users and an easy-to-use authoring experience for library staff. The redesigned website aligns with the University Libraries’ values. First and foremost: we recognize users as our primary focus.
Screenshot of a section of the SIA-NY website
Discovery Systems for Great User Experiences
To enhance the library's online presence and ease of use, Lauren researched and selected a new discovery system for the Sotheby's Institute of Art Libraries (New York and London). She investigated various integrated library systems for the libraries in a move towards better management and assessment of physical and digital library resources. She also implemented and customized the Springshare Libapps suite for the Libraries. At UAlbany, she has continued this work by participating on the Online Public Interfaces Committee and the Usability, Discovery, Online Content Committee to create a better discovery experience for students.
iPad Catalog Stations
Lauren discovered the need for and implemented new quick search stations in the library, which feature iPad kiosks for patrons to find information quickly in the online catalog. Wall-mounted and tablet-sized, the kiosks are not only easy for patrons to access and use but they save valuable library space compared to catalog computer stations.
Accessible Spaces at Dewey
A review of the display area at the Dewey Library led to a redesign of the space and furniture for better user experience and engagement. A dedicated display for new books was created and the main display case was repositioned to allow for 360° displays. Additionally, Lauren worked with staff to relocate library print and scan equipment to increase patron traffic and enhance staff sight-lines.
Online Room Reservations
A regular pain-point for graduate students on the downtown campus was the lack of group study rooms at the Dewey Graduate Library. In order to offer bookable space to students and raise awareness of newly available group study space at the library, Lauren set up an online room reservation system for patrons to book rooms in advance. She developed procedures and policies, designed the online reservation page and trained staff in using the reservation system.
The room reservation page, recently launched.
Engaging Orientation Events for Positive First-Impressions
Focusing on students' first impression and interactions with the library, Lauren has organized annual library tours and orientations with New York City research institutes; leading groups of students to meet with local librarians and learn about all the resources available to them beyond campus. She utilized apps such as Eventbrite to track RSVPs and attendance.
She has also organized events at the semester's start on the UAlbany downtown campus where students can stop and chat with librarians on their way to class, pick up informational handouts and promotional materials. These events are always well attended as they take place weekday evenings.
These activities offer a proactive and positive image for the library; giving students the confidence to use the facilities and services provided by the library as well as connecting them with the faces of the library.