Keeping Users in the Dark: The Design and Implementation of a Dark Mode for a University Library Website

Abstract

Dark modes of websites have become a popular feature for users in recent years. While the option to create a contrast mode has existed for decades at the system level, what we are seeing now are designs not only focused on accessibility, but also usability.

Library personnel at the Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis University Library took it upon themselves to follow this trend and begin the design, development, and implementation of a dark mode version of the library’s website. This involved some trial and error in the initial prototype, taking feedback from users, and then writing the new stylesheet.