Learning from libraries that use WordPress as a content-management system

CHICAGO—With its intuitive interface and open-source development method, the WordPress Web platform has emerged as a uniquely flexible content-management system (CMS) with many library-related applications. In “Learning from Libraries that Use WordPress: Content-Management System Best Practices and Case Studies,” published by ALA Editions, Web designer/librarians Kyle M. L. Jones and Polly-Alida Farrington explore the variety of ways libraries are implementing WordPress as a CMS, from simple "out-of-the-box" websites to large sites with many custom features. Emphasizing a library-specific perspective, the authors:

• Offer a brief history of WordPress, reviewing its genesis and sketching in some possible future directions;
• Analyze the software’s strengths and weaknesses, spotlighting its advantages over other existing Web publishing platforms as well as discussing the limitations libraries have encountered;
• Present a variety of case studies, offering first-hand examples which detail why WordPress was selected, methods of implementation and degree of customization, feedback from users and reflections on usability;
• Discuss essential plug-ins, themes and other specialized applications for library sites.

Jones is a PhD student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison in the School of Library and Information Studies, where his research interests are focused on e-learning informatics, traditional and non-traditional online learning environments and digital library technologies.



Farrington is a former academic librarian with 17 years’ experience in reference, government documents, ILL and technology. Since 1996, as principal of PA Farrington Associates, she has offered technology-related training, Web project development, and consulting services to libraries, library systems and schools.

ALA Store purchases fund advocacy, awareness and accreditation programs for library professionals worldwide. ALA Editions publishes resources used worldwide by tens of thousands of library and information professionals to improve programs, build on best practices, develop leadership, and for personal professional development. ALA authors and developers are leaders in their fields, and their content is published in a growing range of print and electronic formats. Contact ALA Editions at (800) 545-2433 ext. 5418 or editionsmarketing@ala.org.

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