This project involved extensive research into the John Brown Library and how it could be more effective for its students. I was involved in all aspects of the project, from research, to brainstorming solutions, to prototyping and eventually implementing those solutions. I designed an infographic to summarize all of the information gathered throughout the whole process and put it into a clear and concise visual. 

Bookshelf end caps were designed to visually enhance the look of the library, as well as provide clear signs for the location of books.

Clear signage was a problem that we noticed in the Library. We designed signs to solve these way-finding issues.

The visuals of the current library needed an update to make students feel comfortable and make the atmosphere more relaxed and enjoyable. We came up with a new color palette and updates to the furniture to help solve this problem.

We placed succulents and plants throughout the space to add life and greenery to the area. We also prototyped a table with built-in outlets that students can use. These outlets fold down into the table when not in use. To promote staff/student interaction, we came up with the "text a librarian" idea for students to be able to ask questions from wherever they are at, from their cell phones. We designed table tents with instructions on how that works and placed them throughout the library. 

We found that students had problems using the online catalogue, so we designed and placed detailed instructions on how to use it around the library.

In the initial research, we discovered that the Smart board available in the library had no instruction of any kind and was difficult to use. We solved this by designing detailed instructions on how to use the Smart board and where to find the tools for it. We witnessed increase use after implementation. 

Another issue we ran into was that a lot of students had no knowledge of the extensive film collection that was available to them in the library. We moved the films out to an area where they could be easily seen and provided instructions on how to check out the movies. We also organized a new check out system for them. 

We came up with an idea to implement student art into the library that could be changed or switched out periodically. 

A big problem that we found was with the layout of the library. We fixed some wayfinding problems, added space in the lobby for collaborative use, added more tables for individual use, and added a coffee cart in the lobby for student use.