Many libraries and museums possess large quantities of old and rare material, which is, for protection, accessible only to a small group of researchers. With the digitization of such a material we could offer access to the general public. This is usually done in the form of digital libraries. They provide quick and easy access to quality information sources and that is one of the main reasons why the number of users is constantly growing. However, any digital library has to adjust its functionality to the material offered and the expected users. Key quality that allows even users without extensive prior knowledge is a good user interface. It has direct and indirect impact on the (non) use of digital libraries and on users behavior. In this master thesis we studied the specifics of manuscripts and old prints. We wanted to know what a digital library and its user interface must be like that is suitable for use with this type of material. We studied Ifla's guidelines for planning the digitization of rare books and manuscripts, and based on the recommendations we draw up a set of criteria for evaluation. With the help of an expert study, we evaluated the three selected digital librar: Slovenian Dlib, Austrian Alo and Czech Manuscriptorium. We have pre-defined groups of five criteria, we have observed the interface and user-friendliness, search, browse, display results and navigation. The results were encouraging, as all three digital libraries are at least partially adapted to work with rare materials. Most of the criteria is met by Dlib followed by Manuscriptorium. We found quite a few opportunities for improvement and we also suggested them.
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