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*LibGuides Guidelines and Help

Selected Layouts

The University at Albany Libraries has preferred layouts for making LibGuides. See below: 

Layout 1 - Two column approach - Left sidebar / right content

This approach is best used for consistent navigation and to promote consistent boxes for navigational purposes.

Layout 2 - Two column approach - Right sidebar / left content

This layout is particularly good for value added to a web page. Boxes on the right are usually for supplemental information supporting the content of the page or directing a user to more resources.

Layout 3 - Three column approach

The most flexible designing area. A web builder can utilize side column areas for specifc content described in Layout one and two. The main middle content area will be smaller, but should suffice most web pages.

Layout Tips

  • Break it up - Let’s not drown our patron with deep pages of text!!
  • Two column approach is ideal for content with a third column for a profile.
  • Minimize scrolling for the user. If needed, create subpages.
  • Keep page height to the minimum. Try not to exceed 1.5 to 2 times the minimum browser height of 768 pixels
  • Boxes- When creating a new box, carefully select the box type based on type of content you want to put inside. Further information about this in the "Add new box" links.
  • Blend – use images, polls and text effectively  to create a better user  experience.
  • Split up long paragraphs of text with bold headings, space.
  • Boxing and blocking continuity. Assure your layout is fluid. So not crowd all your boxes on one column. This will make the page seem uneven and appear unprofessional.
  • Highlighting and consistency. Highlight your information! Use a special box with a different light background color {light yellow} and highlight some content if applicable. Keep terms, links, and colors consistent for usablity.
  • Tables are ok, but try to avoid them. That's why LibGuides has boxes!
  • Embrace whitespace! Promote readibility!
  • Tabs -  Don’t go over two rows of tabs – one is preferred. Try not to exceed 7-10 tabs in a row.