What are the latest information architecture trends for libraries and how can you stay up-to-date?

1 User-centered design

User-centered design (UCD) is a process that puts the user at the heart of every decision and action related to IA. UCD involves researching, testing, and evaluating how users interact with information, and designing solutions that meet their needs, preferences, and goals. UCD can help libraries create more effective and engaging IA that enhances user satisfaction, loyalty, and trust. UCD can also help libraries identify and address any gaps, issues, or opportunities in their current IA.

3 Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the field of computer science that aims to create systems that can perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as reasoning, learning, and decision making. AI can help libraries improve their IA by automating and augmenting some of the processes and functions that involve information management and delivery. For example, libraries can use AI to analyze user behavior and feedback, and provide personalized recommendations, suggestions, and assistance. Libraries can also use AI to classify, index, and summarize their content, and generate natural language descriptions, captions, and queries.

4 Voice and chat interfaces

Voice and chat interfaces are modes of interaction that use natural language as the main input and output. Voice interfaces rely on speech recognition and synthesis, while chat interfaces use text or graphical elements. Voice and chat interfaces can help libraries expand their IA by offering new ways for users to access and consume information. For example, libraries can use voice and chat interfaces to create conversational agents, such as chatbots or virtual assistants, that can answer user questions, provide guidance, and perform tasks. Libraries can also use voice and chat interfaces to enable users to search, browse, and request information using voice commands or text messages.

5 Accessibility and inclusion

Accessibility and inclusion are principles and practices that ensure that information is available and usable for everyone, regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or contexts. Accessibility and inclusion can help libraries achieve their IA goals by promoting diversity, equity, and social justice in their information environments. For example, libraries can use accessibility and inclusion to design and implement IA that follows the web content accessibility guidelines (WCAG), and that supports multiple languages, cultures, and perspectives. Libraries can also use accessibility and inclusion to involve and empower their users, especially those who are marginalized or underrepresented, in their IA processes and outcomes.

How can you stay up-to-date with the latest IA trends for libraries? One way is to follow the publications, blogs, podcasts, and social media accounts of leading IA experts, organizations, and communities. Another way is to attend the events, workshops, webinars, and courses that offer IA education and training. A third way is to participate in the projects, initiatives, and networks that foster IA collaboration and innovation. By staying up-to-date with the latest IA trends for libraries, you can enhance your skills, knowledge, and practice, and create better information experiences for your users.