Library Display Comparison and Review

Assignment Summary

For this assignment, I was asked to evaluate two display boards from different libraries.

The criteria for evaluating the libraries were the principles of design.

(See link below for details)

https://www.slideshare.net/Izaham/visual-principles

I chose the San Marcos Public Library

http://www.sdcl.org/locations_SM.html

It features a number of items; The Mexican Flag, The Pinata, several sombreros flowers, without any context. It lacks a unifying theme to tie all the concepts and visuals together. I would assume the theme would be Cinco De Mayo or a celebration of Hispanic heritage. Resulting from it its purpose being lost on patrons passing by. People’s understanding of these items is limited. People might see the Pinata and think of a birthday party, or assume the sombrero is associated with parties. Including some text underneath each item could have resolved this issue. There was a small sign in the far corner but was obscured from view. This could have been a good opportunity to teach people about another culture or historical event. Unfortunately, the flaws in the design features prevent it from leaving a lasting impression.

And the Carlsbad Dove Library

http://www.carlsbadca.gov/services/depts/library/default.asp

(There is only 1 link for all libraries in Carlsbad)

The display fulfills and exceeds the criteria established in the principles of design. Especially in its presentation of materials. It includes several items but has space for each one and doesn’t appear cluttered. Which isn’t an easy balance to accomplish. Each item adds to the display’s message; love the life you live. Which is a thoughtful and relevant message. Some of them are nice surprises(including the Star Wars Poster. Many of them evoke memories of childhood from the Star Wars Poster, the doodles, or the school notebook. Some of them are reminders of good times as an adult from the license plate cover(getting your license, freedom), and the wine glass. The font and lettering on the display board is a good size so people won’t have to strain their eyes to read it. Many library patrons are in their 60’s and it's important to consider those features. Many library patrons are in their 60’s. It’s important to make sure Library materials are encompassing and don’t only appeal to one age group.

Reflection

The principles of design taught me the correlation between the display’s visuals and communicating your message. Being purposeful with those elements makes a huge difference. While teaching the art of organizing and presenting a library display. That it's not only the message that matters but how it's presented. Especially the physical elements ranging from how it's organized, to the color schemes, and invisible line. Along with assessing the impact of the items on people. While considering the patron’s point of view. Will they understand it? Do they need context? In many ways, this was about understanding your audience and the best way to present it. While providing the means to do so effectively.

This project taught me how to critically evaluate library displays. Especially a display’s message, and impact. While teaching me the skills to create a library display. Which I can put into practice when creating and developing displays. The human attention span is getting shorter, and we need to find innovative ways to capture that, even if it's only for a few seconds. My goal is to look at and develop new ways to do this. Including using technology like the QR Codes. I believe there’s a huge potential in that area.