Methods Of Digital Library Usability

Abstract

The digital library is the widely accepted term describing the use of digital technologies to acquire, store, preserve and provide access to information and material originally published in digital form or digitised from existing print, audio-visual and other forms. Today most institutions are providers of technology-based services and are often involved in the production of systems supporting their initiatives. When aiming to satisfy user needs and guarantee acceptable tools and environment for consuming the assets of institutions, it is necessary to be familiar with the main standards and guidelines regulating usability. In this paper the authors highlighted the methods, forms, and issues of digital library usability. Usability should not be confused with ‘functionality’, however, as this is purely concerned with the functions and features of the product and has no bearing on whether users are able to use them or not. Increased functionality does not mean improved usability. Comparable to any other system, a digital library must possess usability properties so it can be usable by the digital library’s users. Digital library usability properties can influence usability attributes and allow users to easily and effectively accomplish digital library tasks.