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Standards for Creating LibGuides

Requirements

  Page Layout for Subject / Topic / Course Guides
  Guide landing page (Get Started) adheres to a side navigation, two-column layout with core boxes listing requisite number of recommended resources and relevant guides
  Guide consists of 10 or fewer pages total
  Subsequent guide pages use one-column or two-column layout
  Subsequent page titles consistent with recommended conventions

Topic Guides

Topic guides provide users of all levels and experiences—from incoming freshmen and emeritus faculty to even library staff—research guidance and recommendations specific to a relevant topic (e.g., current events, open access, etc.).

Topic guides must adhere to the same conventions as subject guides in respect to:

  • Names and Descriptions
  • Navigation and Layout
  • Landing Page and Required Boxes
  • Subsequent Pages

NOTE: Do not assign subjects to Topic guides. Topic guides are intended to be more general and not reappear under multiple Subject lists. If you would like the content of a Topic guide to appear in your Subject area list, make a copy and modify it to that subject area, rename it, and then assign a Subject to that new guide, (e.g., creating "Criminal Justice Tests and Measurements" from Topic guide "Tests and Measurements"). Using a box on a Subject Guide for Related Guides with a link to the Topic guide is also an option.

Example Topic Guides

Checklist for Topic Guides

  • Guide landing page (Get Started) adheres to a side navigation, two-column layout with core boxes listing requisite number of recommended resources and relevant guides
  • Topic guide consists of 10 or fewer pages total and does not contain nested pages
  • Subsequent topic guide pages use one-column or two-column layout
  • Guide type and group assigned