Navigating Theological Resources A Webometric Content Analysis

Abstract

Objectives

This study assesses the navigability of a selection of American Theological Library Association and Association of Christian Librarians library websites and measures the extent to which these libraries employ responsive design.

Methods

This study uses quantitative content analysis. 

Results

The most frequent navigational path for key content was in the main text of the landing page, either through a direct hyperlink or simply as text displayed on the website.

Two-thirds (66%) of the websites were found to be fully functional in their mobile versions, with only 5 (6%) partially functional and 19 (23%) not functional at all.

Conclusions

Theological libraries should consider their mission and resources when organizing their websites. Additionally, they should strive to include basic customer service and research assistance through their website. Putting key content in the main text of the homepage will make it more available to potential users. Libraries will do well to continue efforts toward responsive design.