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| New Library |
Situated in a wooded setting with a Mt. Hood view, the new Gladstone Library is a stunning, John Yeon-inspired design by THA Architecture. When completed in 2014, it will replace two small, dark and outdated community libraries.
In kicking off our design work for exterior and interior signage in any new library, our first burning question is always "How do they currently identify their collections?" Because collection ID signs are typically the most prominent and numerous in any library, they are not only critical design elements but are also the most important signs for users - visitors and staff alike. They also require frequent message changes as the collection shifts and grows. In order to begin a new design, we must first understand the current approach. Karen and Mike took a field trip last week to find out.
Our research proved invaluable: we learned that the current libraries use Dewey decimal numbers rather than detailed listings to identify collections on the shelf end panels, informing our design and shaping the overall view within the new library. We're now ready to move forward with design!
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| New Library: stacks and view |
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| What we saw: collection ID and range finders at existing library |
