Chris Jasek of Elsevier’s User Centered Design Group answers your usability questions.

Q: What library terms do users understand? What terms should I use when naming links on my library website?

A: Using terminology familiar to users is very important for website usability — especially when it comes to labeling links or buttons. Multiple usability studies have shown users do not understand simple library terms and concepts like catalog, resources, online databases, citation, reserves, reference or special collections. To overcome this challenge here are some suggestions:

• Avoid acronyms and internal jargon. Instead of OPAC or your own invented name for your catalog, use the label “Find books and more.”
• Offer short descriptions next to labels, e.g. “Electronic Journals — electronic full text of journal articles.” Descriptions can also be implemented as "tool tips" by using the ALT or TITLE attributes in HTML.
• Do a quick user test on your labels by asking users, “Where do you expect to go when clicking on this label?" or "What does this mean to you?“ This is simply the best way to see if your labels are working.
• Check out John Kupersmith's webpage, “Library Terms That Users Understand,” at  www.jkup.net/terms.html