Learning from libraries that use WordPress: content-management system best practices and case studies

WordPress is open-source content-management software that manages the online publishing and administration of content defined by authors, and is used extensively for websites, blogs and other similar online content. This book is a do-it-yourself manual for WordPress administrators and potential WordPress users. It aims to be hands-on and also to give some background and case studies relating to use of the software. Early chapters begin with a history of WordPress and summarise the advantages and disadvantages of using this software. The book then moves on to give step-by-step instructions for installation and administration of WordPress out of the box. The instructions are detailed, with illustrations showing each step, and are very easy to follow. The authors then provide information on customising WordPress for an individual library and advice on how to administer websites. They explore how to implement features such as themes, user roles, other user management, calendars and events, backups, and security. There is information on using widgets, and instructions on gathering analytic information for reporting on and improving sites. The second half of the book is devoted to case studies by WordPress users. These chapters cover such topics as creating dynamic subject guides, using WordPress for digital archives, creating a virtual library and developing library blogs. There is also guidance on how to use WordPress to make usability a priority and the process of finding content a satisfying user experience. The authors have extensive technology and web-management backgrounds and are also experienced trainers. This is reflected in the content, which is both highly relevant and easy to understand. A librarian could pick up this manual and use it to set up a basic WordPress site without needing specialist technical knowledge. Moreover, while the case studies and examples are library-based, the how-to components of this manual are applicable beyond the library sphere. There is a detailed list of resources for users of WordPress to follow up, including a list of community sites, mailing lists and theme sites. There is also an extensive index. The content will date, as with all similar software guides. Nonetheless, this is a highly recommended guide to implementingWordPress. It is a handy manual for a WordPress (or potential WordPress) administrator to keep on a nearby shelf for reference.