We recently completed a redesigned WordPress website for Bourbon County Public Library, with a focus on improving navigation, making library resources easier to discover, and creating a more useful online experience for patrons.
The previous website presented some challenges in how information was organized. Its navigation consisted of eight equally weighted menu items, with little distinction between different types of content. The home page relied heavily on graphics and logos linking to outside resources, often without descriptions to help visitors understand what those resources offered.
Our redesign began with a more thoughtful approach to the site’s structure. We reorganized the navigation into three distinct groups, making it easier for patrons to find information based on what they need. General library information, including About, Calendar, Services, and Resources, is grouped together, while News, Teens, and Children provide access to content for specific audiences. A separate group offers convenient access to the library’s online catalog and patron accounts.
The home page also received a significant transformation. Rather than functioning primarily as a collection of links, it now serves as a welcoming and informative starting point for exploring the library.
We integrated the library’s existing third-party event calendar to display upcoming programs and activities directly on the home page, making it easier for patrons to discover what’s happening without navigating to a separate calendar. A feed of recent news keeps visitors informed about library announcements and updates, while more meaningful promotional features highlight services and resources with descriptions that provide context and encourage exploration.
Throughout the redesign, we focused on creating a clean, modern appearance with intuitive navigation, readable content, and accessibility-minded design. The fully responsive website provides a consistent, user-friendly experience across desktop computers, tablets, and mobile devices.
Built on WordPress, the new website also gives library staff greater flexibility to manage content, share news, and highlight important information. By incorporating the library’s existing calendar system, we were able to bring event information into the new design without requiring staff to maintain duplicate listings.
The result is a more organized and engaging website that helps patrons discover the many services, resources, and programs available through Bourbon County Public Library, while making day-to-day website management easier for library staff.
View the new Bourbon County Public Library website.