Today, the State Library launched a new website on the official platform for state of Iowa agencies. The website can still be found at StateLibraryofIowa.gov.
The project came about following a directive from the Governor after the state government realignment in 2023 for all state agencies to use the official website platform. The goal was to have a consistent, easy to use interface with a unified look and feel to improve constituent experience.
“This project has been in the works for some months now, and we are pleased to launch the new State Library website with some exciting enhancements for our users,” said Interim State Librarian Brenda Hall. “The new website still contains all of the important information that libraries and Iowans have come to expect from us, and it is now more apparent that we are part of state government.”
The state of Iowa contracted with a vendor to lead the process in updating and transitioning state agency websites to a consistent platform. The State Library follows about 60 other agency websites that have already gone through the process, and is now on the official state government website platform for the first time.
The new site is built on the Drupal platform, and designed with accessibility and readability in mind. Features include:
- Improved content for landing pages, locations, contacts, and “How Do I…” explanations for processes.
- Quick Links to useful and popular content throughout the site.
- More white space and larger fonts and titles for accessibility and readability.
- Shorter paragraphs and sentences for readability.
- Greater compatibility with mobile use, including Tables of Contents and “Back to Top” links on longer pages.
- Improved navigation, showcasing more of the work the State Library does.
- Prominent featured images that complement the text.
Libraries should understand this change does not affect their PLOW websites provided by the State Library, and those will remain on the Concrete5 platform.