How to build LibGuides in a way that makes it as easy-as-possible to keep them up-to-date and looking nice (and avoid the ire of the system administrator).
Create guides for specific courses, events, or exhibitions as separate guides, not as pages within main subject guides.
Remove inappropriate and/or empty pages / boxes from your guide.
Do not, under any circumstances, copy and paste from Microsoft Word.
Copy and paste from .txt or .rtf documents or type in the content.
Use the standard fonts.
Use "Subheading" to create text headers.
Use "Links and Lists" boxes to create lists of links.
Use "Books from the Catalog" boxes to create lists of print resources.
Use title case for guide / page / box titles and text headings.
For guides for specific courses follow the naming convention: *subject abbreviation* *course number*: *course title* .
Set a "Friendly URL".
Associate your guide with the appropriate subjects using "Subject Associations".
For specific course guides, select the subject "Courses" in addition to the subject area.
For guides dedicated to a topic not directly addressing a main subject or specific course, select the subject "Special Topics" in addition to the main subject area.
Add appropriate tags.
Include the related course abbreviation codes in the tags.
Keep your guide up to date.
Fix broken links.
Ensure content reflects current policies and practices.
Failure to update or at least check your guides before the start of each semester will result in the LibGuides administrator hiding your guide from the public.
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
