This week, we were asked to review examples of Omeka sites.

The first I reviewed was the Fredericksburg National Cemetery site from Digital History 2018. I wanted to see an example of previous class work to get an idea of what other projects were like. It is one that has gone slightly defunct, so the initial impression of this site is a list of deprecation notes that are very distracting. Otherwise, the homepage layout is easy to navigate, and I like the way that the links are incorporated to both technical and personal sites. The majority of the navigation links connect to active pages/information, the exception being the “Browse Exhibits” page. I think the spacing on the Meet the Team segment of the home page is a bit much and makes you scroll more than you really need to.

The second site I reviewed was Virginia Tech Special Collections and University Archives Online. Archives overlap with my class project for the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center, with my job at the University Archives, and with my volunteer work with the Adair Co. Historical Society for whom I am hoping to create an Omeka site, so I wanted to see an Omeka site intended for a more professional archive. My first thought was that the text was light. When I adjusted my screen settings, it became a bit easier to see. The thin orange font for post headings and navigation is an interesting choice that makes sense for the school’s colors but doesn’t necessarily help with readability. The navigation tabs all appear functional and easy to use, and I like that the featured item is randomized, so that reloading the page reveals new photos and information from the archives.

These sites have definitely given me ideas for what to do in designing an Omeka site, as well as updating my personal WordPress site.

Until next time,

CE