October 5

Hours logged: 30

Great article!

Bad signals

Want to create a hostile library environment? Follow these simple steps:

• Put up as many signs as you can that contain words such as “no,” “must,” “forbidden,” “only,” “prohibited,” and “do not.” And do not neglect the good old circle-slash symbol.
• Use plenty of italics, underlining, and bold-faced text. Better yet, use all three at once.
• Do not scrimp on exclamation points!!!!
• If you splurge on color, be sure to use plenty of red!!!!
  
  
  
  (What would a customer experience? What would they "feel?" The space is rich, warm, clean and clear.)

More great advice:

What are the core components of poorly designed and low-quality signage?

• The sign, or the lettering on it, is the wrong size—either too small if meant to be read from a distance, or too large if meant to be read close-up.
• The sign is too wordy to take in at a glance.
• The font is not highly legible.
• There is not enough negative space around the lettering.
• There is poor contrast between the color of the lettering and the color of background.
• The meaning of the wording or symbols used on the sign is unclear.
• The sign is made from cheap materials, i.e., paper.
• The sign is poorly mounted: crooked, hung on a uneven surface, or attached with tape or thumbtacks.
• The sign is placed where it is difficult to see or not placed at the point of need.
• The sign is so old it has become shopworn or information is out of date.