"Kindness Audit" (Library Usability)

From Joe Hardenbrook in his blog, Mr. Library Dude ("I'm a librarian. I'm a dude. Mr. Library Dude. Blogging about libraries, technology & teaching.") -- he writes about a MOOC taught by Michael Stephens and specifically that module that discussed a "kindness audit" -- 

Examining Library Spaces through a “Kindness Audit”

October 17, 2013

Have you ever considered doing a “kindness audit” at your library?

Old signage: Outdated terminology such as “bibliographic instruction.” Art slides have been removed from the library.

In the HyperlibMOOC class, Michael Stephens discusses the concept of a “kindness audit” – look at your library space and examine how kind it is for your patrons.

• Is the signage positive?
• Are your service desks welcoming?
• Can users find their way easily?
• What obstacles do your users encounter? 

I did a walk through of my library and tried to experience it from someone who has never set foot in the doors.

First a little bit about my library:

Article continues at link (with photos). 

It's worth walking around your library facility and very purposefully looking at it with fresh eyes -- particularly if you're very familiar with the space; after a while you can get inured to the messages your facility sends to your customers.