CASE STUDY:

Library Learning Garden

Challenge

Although the Library Learning Garden offered free Wi-Fi, study pods, picnic areas, and a community garden, its location away from the main entrance meant many users overlooked it. The challenge was to make the space more visible, inviting, and integrated into the library experience.

My Role

I led the visual design for the Learning Garden, focusing on creating an intuitive and welcoming experience through environmental graphics and signage. I worked closely with staff to understand visitor movement and used visual cues to support discovery, orientation, and accessibility.

Solution

I designed cohesive signage pairing brand-aligned colors with nature-inspired motifs, creating a system that blended with the environment while maintaining connection to the library's established identity.

I also developed a multi-channel awareness campaign including digital signage, a webpage, map, and table signs to encourage users inside the library to explore the garden's amenities.

Results

Transformed the Learning Garden into a welcoming, well-defined destination
Signage made the space feel more inviting and accessible, noted by staff and users
Campaign led to a 30% increase in gate count compared to the previous year

Wooden wall with leaf cutouts, flyers, and an informational sign

Wide view of the outdoor library garden including chalkboards, vegetable plants, and a field

The final environmental design for the Library Learning Garden. Users can enjoy this space anytime during daylight hours. The library also hosts outdoor programs and concerts in this location.

Multi-channel campaign: Digital

Landing page on the library website with details about the Learning Garden

An ad in the library website’s “featured resources” section on the homepage

Digital signage displayed on multiple screens throughout the library. These informational slides were paired with high-resolution photographs of the space to excite users and give them a full idea of what to expect.

Multi-channel campaign: Print

two tri-sided table signs with information about the learning garden

Three tri-sided table signs with phographs of children using the learning garden

Tri-sided signs were placed on work tables in the Youth and Adult departments to meet users where they were. Different photographs and feature lists were used for the “family” version and the “study” version. Family version pictured above.

Vinyl sticker for water bottles and laptops to remind users of the Library Garden and share it with others