September 29

Really interesting blog on the Seattle Public Library, which discusses the impression the bold design has left on users, good and bad. http://architectureinmedia.wordpress.com/tag/web/

"This collage depicts the mixing chamber on the 5th floor of the Seattle Central Library, on the top of the floating platform dedicated for meeting rooms.

This sort of representations is usually devised not to transmit an actual impression of space, but an intention of experience and atmosphere in a certain space.

In this case, we can observe how patrons and librarians interact in a constant flow of interdisciplinary information, creating a stimulating environment of exchange."

September 24

Hours: 14

Still reading through several books... here's a few:
The excellent "Wayfinding Handbook"

Also reading:

Wayfinding: Designing and Implementing Graphic Navigational Systems by Craig Berger

Signage Systems and Information Graphics: A Professional Sourcebook by Andreas Uebele

September 18

I wanted to share this video, as it hits on the many exciting changes many libraries are undergoing.

"The Library as we know it is changing..."

 ".. because of technology, generation differences, and a new set of expectations. No longer is the library seen as a cold building housing old books but a vibrant, active community gathering space where students share their insights and new ideas are brought into the light by trained professionals with advanced internet search techniques. BCI is leading the design of these new library spaces with modern library furniture & shelving systems that promote enlightened environments."

September 14

Hours: 10

Recently, I created a "Welcome" sign sample, which combines the "code of conduct", with a person standing along it, representing a staff member. Of course, this could be the director, a librarian, or perhaps a group shot. The point is to connect the code of conduct, and people, as a recognition that these are not just words to modify behavior but a request to "be kind," and thoughtful, and respectful to one another. The physical appearance of a person standing beside the words: Be Kind... can have a psychological priming effect.

September 5

I've found several books today relating to wayfinding signage:

"Where am I? What can I do here? Where can I go from here? How do I get out of here?
Consciously or not, we ask such questions every day as we navigate the places and spaces of our lives."

 

 

 

A great website about great design; the SEGD Global Design Awards:

 http://www.segd.org/design-awards/2012-segd-global-design-awards.html

 



Hours logged: 8.0

September 1

I wanted to share this visualization that was used in designing the allocated spaces within the Seattle Public Library. It's and actual visualization of the library’s “programs” via color coordination.

 

 

What are the advantages of divying up library space by color, rather than simply creating a text-based sign? I found a great bibliography on ALA's website, on "Building Libraries and Library Additions," which touches on this among other design issues.

August 25

Love the imagination behind this! Great way to tackle a unique space problem.

"From 12-packs of paper towels to The Count of Monte Cristo: A deserted Wal-Mart in McAllen, Texas, is stocking a new kind of item on its shelves."

"Some of the library’s more charming features include what Horan calls “mega-pendants,” or large signs emblazoned with genre names and designed to make the lofty ceilings seem a little lower."

"Under them are reading nooks they call “respites.” The library also features a quiet room, several computer labs, a small volunteer-run bookstore, and a café."

 

 

August 23

Over the past several months, I've considered the Ingalls Library and Museum Archives, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Library and Archive, but had to rule these out due to travel concerns... it just wasn't realistic. So, having already met with the director of the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum, however, logistically it was bad timing unfortunately. A year ago, I was planning on parlaying an internship experience at the Columbus Museum of Art, into a practicum. But the library was mostly in need of an archivist or a cataloger. Neither pulled me in that direction, so I opted out. While looking around for other options, I spoke to the Director of the Bexley Public Library, Rachel Rubin about a potential project that involved my area of interest: Visual communication within the physical space of the "brick and mortar" library. As much as the focus is turning towards the web presence a library presents, I still enjoy getting my hands "dirty" as it were, and producing "objects" within a public space. Considering that this might be an opportunity that would lead to the fabrication of some of my ideas involving signage, and the general changes in the aesthetics of a space, I jumped at it. So that's where I'm at, much of what I'll be working on is "theoretical" really, but I'll will be atleast creating examples which can be eventually fabricated. Next step? Perusing and taking notes in the stacks of the Bexley Library!

Daily log: 2.0 hours