ibiblio

2024, Fall Field Experience Internship

UX Research at ibiblio: Transforming User Experience in Digital Collections

Project Overview

During my field experience at ibiblio (a digital public library of collections with over 12 million transactions a day) I conducted comprehensive human centered research to enhance and bolster usability practices, focusing on user experience (UX) research, collections management, and practical accessibility guidelines. Working with diverse digital collections, I developed innovative approaches to understanding and improving user interaction with digital resources.

Key Achievements

Conducted in-depth UX research across multiple digital collections held by ibiblio, including WXYZ Radio, Asian Classical MP3, Project Gutenberg, and the Walker Percy Project.

  • - Performed comprehensive usability testing, conducted user surveys with 150 respondents, and led user interviews

  • - Developed a Python-based log analysis tool to provide data-driven insights for collection management and traffic analysis

  • - Created comprehensive usability guidelines integrating WCAG standards and user feedback

Research Methodology

My approach combined rigorous research techniques with practical implementation:

  • - Systematic collection audits using Norman's heuristic evaluation principles

  • - In-depth stakeholder interviews with collection contributors

  • - Large-scale usability testing with comprehensive pre-test protocols

  • - Iterative design process incorporating user feedback and accessibility standards

ibiblio logo

Impact and Takeaways

The project resulted in:

  • - Practical, actionable accessibility guidelines and improved usability practices

  • - A sustainable tool for ongoing digital collections and user traffic management

  • - Enhanced understanding of balancing technical capabilities with user needs

Impact

Through this experience, I gained deep insights into the complexities of digital librarianship, learning that true accessibility goes beyond technical solutions—it requires a holistic understanding of user experiences, cultural contexts, and diverse technological capabilities.

My work at ibiblio exemplifies a user-centered approach to digital accessibility, demonstrating how thoughtful research and innovative tools can transform digital library experiences.

Key Learning

Usability Guidelines