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LibGuides Best Practices

Internal UCI Libraries resource guide to promote best practices in guides.

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Consistent terminology

For our users, it is helpful if consistent terminology is used across LibGuides. Here is an evolving list of preferred terminology:

Preferred terminology for LibGuides.
Preferred Instead of
appointment consultation (can be used internally)
ebook(s) eBook(s), e-book, e-Book, Ebook, E-book, E-Book
ejournal(s) eJournal(s), e-journal, e-Journal, E-journal, E-Journal
page tab (when referring to the sections of a guide; acceptable to use "tab" when referring to a tabbed box on a page)
Research Guides LibGuides (used internally to refer to the Springshare software)
UC Library Search, catalog UCI Library Search, catalogue, Catalog, ANTPAC
UC Irvine Libraries, the Libraries UCI Libraries, UCI Library, UCI library, the UC Irvine Libraries
[It is acceptable to use "library" (lowercase "l") when referring to services, resources, or other general references (i.e., library books or library hours).]
user patron
visitor(s), community member(s) walk-in(s)

For additional preferred terminology, please see the House Style: Frequently Used Terms section of UC Irvine Libraries' Brand and Style Guidelines, available on the Templates and Resources page of the UC Irvine Libraries Communications Department Wiki.

Accessible terminology

Use device-inclusive language

Users may be accessing guide content using a variety of devices and tools (e.g., laptop, smartphone, tablet, voice interface, adaptive device, etc.). Instead of using words that represents a behavioral action (e.g., click), use device-agnostic words that describe the action (e.g., select), irrespective of the interface. Examples:

  • Use choose or select, instead of click, tap, or press.
  • Use view or access, instead of see.
  • Use enter, instead of type.

Avoid positional language

Users may be accessing guides on a variety of device sizes and responsive design means that guide content will be rearranged to suit the screen size of the user. As such:

  • Avoid using "positional language" (e.g., left, right, top, bottom) to describe where content is located in the guide.
  • Link to the content you are referring to within a guide, as every box has a unique URL. (Springshare: View a box's direct link)