Staff Guide: LibGuides Standards & Best Practices

• Never use all caps, in body text or box names. THIS IS CONSIDERED SHOUTING AND IS HARD TO READ. This includes box titles. 
• Never use all italics or bolding. Use these sparingly, for emphasis. 
• For the most part do not change the color of the text from black. 
• Keep link text blue. Other colors can confuse users.
• Use one space after a period, not two. 
• In most cases, keep text aligned left. Centered text can be difficult to read in large amounts.
• Make use of lists when possible. Break up paragraphs with many items into a list for ease of reading.

When copying and pasting content from Word or from another source you must make sure to strip out any invisible code.

The easiest way to do this is to copy and paste your content into Notepad, then copy paste that into Libguides.

Notepad will strip out any hidden code attached to your text and assure that no unintended styles end up in your guide.

Check your guide on multiple devices with different screen sizes to ensure that your guide functions well and important content is still on top.

Shrinking and expanding your browser window can show a similar effect of how your guide will appear on a smaller or narrower screen.

• If possible do not have links open in a new window. It takes the agency away from the user and can pose problems for people using screen readers.
• Do not change the color or appearance of text links
• Use button links if you want something that looks clickable

Link Text Guidelines

Avoid using "click here". Link text should be descriptive and actionable.