DUL's Bento Search - June 2025

Abstract

This usability study examined the effectiveness, efficiency, and user satisfaction of Duke University Libraries’ (DUL) bento-style search interface, particularly in comparison to Dartmouth’s Primo-based discovery platform. The study involved five graduate students who completed three representative search tasks—open-ended exploration, known-item search, and journal discovery—on both systems. Findings revealed high satisfaction with DUL’s interface and a preference for its format-based categorization, though visual inconsistencies and unclear labeling in the bento interface occasionally hindered task completion. Based on participant behavior and feedback, the study recommends specific refinements to the bento UI, including the addition of a dedicated “Journals” bento, separation of “Books & Media” into distinct categories, and improved visibility of homepage search elements.