Essential development and technical tools for website management and development—with guidance on what each is good for and how you might use them in a library or public services context.
Powerful Open-Source CMS
A free, open-source CMS with extensive flexibility for websites of all sizes, featuring robust modules and enterprise-grade capabilities.
Best For Libraries:
Library Use Case: Ideal for library websites needing advanced features like event management, multilingual content, community forums, or integration with multiple systems.
Flexible Open-Source CMS
Another open-source CMS option that strikes a balance between flexibility and ease of use, suitable for mid-sized library websites.
Best For Libraries:
Library Use Case: Perfect for branch libraries or medium-sized systems that need more than a basic site but don't require enterprise-level complexity.
Cross-Platform Code Editor by Microsoft
Popular, cross-platform code editor with extensive extension ecosystem, intelligent code completion, and built-in Git support.
Best For Libraries:
Library Use Case: Essential tool for any library IT staff member who maintains or customizes your website, creates custom integrations, or works with web-based systems.
Lightweight, Fast Code Editor
Lightweight code editor known for speed and efficiency, with a clean interface and powerful features for developers comfortable with code.
Best For Libraries:
Library Use Case: Great for quick CSS tweaks, template edits, or configuration file updates when you need speed and simplicity.
Web Application Scaffolding Tool
Scaffolding tool that helps you kickstart new web applications and projects with pre-configured templates and best practices.
Best For Libraries:
Library Use Case: When you need to create a custom web tool (like an event registration system or digital exhibit), Yeoman helps you start with a solid foundation.
Java to JavaScript Compiler
Toolkit for building JavaScript front-end applications using Java, allowing Java developers to create browser-based applications.
Best For Libraries:
Note: More specialized tool—may not be needed unless your library has a development team already using Java/JavaScript heavily.
Code Hosting & Collaboration Platform
Code hosting and collaboration platform using Git version control, enabling teams to work together on website code, track changes, and manage projects.
Best For Libraries:
Library Use Case: Essential if you have multiple people working on your website or if you use contractors—helps prevent conflicts and maintains a history of all changes.
API Development & Testing Tool
Comprehensive tool for testing, developing, and documenting APIs, making it easy to work with external services and integrations.
Best For Libraries:
Library Use Case: If your website connects to your ILS, patron database, event system, or any external APIs, Postman is invaluable for testing and troubleshooting these connections.
Professional Font Library for Web
Extensive library of high-quality fonts for web use, integrated with Adobe Creative Cloud, ensuring consistent typography and professional branding.
Best For Libraries:
Library Use Case: When designing your library site, Adobe Fonts helps maintain consistent typography that matches your print materials and supports your brand identity.
Module Bundler for Modern Web Apps
Module bundler for JavaScript and CSS that packages your website's code into optimized bundles for production deployment.
Best For Libraries:
Library Use Case: If your library website has custom JavaScript features (interactive maps, dynamic search, real-time availability), Webpack helps optimize and bundle this code efficiently.
Task Automation Toolkit
Automation tool for repetitive development tasks like minification, compilation, and asset processing, streamlining website updates and maintenance.
Best For Libraries:
Library Use Case: Especially helpful for libraries that frequently update their website—automates tasks like image optimization, code minification, and deployment processes.