A collaborative project commissioned by the Rochester Public Library (RPL) and the City of Rochester, to develop a mobile library system.
Role: Graphic Designer
Primary Responsibilities: Van Wrap, Process Documentation, Presentation Booklet
Primary Responsibilities: Van Wrap, Process Documentation, Presentation Booklet
Project & Goals
RIT College of Art and Design junior and senior level students from industrial, interior and graphic design disciplines partnered with the Rochester Public Library and the City of Rochester to transform a Ram ProMaster Vehicle into a mobile library, officially known as RPL GO!
Over 3 months two teams of six designers were tasked with creating a brand identity and vehicle wrap, mobile library system, specified interior and exterior components, and proposed renovation of the existing Lyell Avenue branch, which will act as the hub for RPL Go and its new hybrid library model.
The goal of the mobile library is to meet the needs of the communities served by increasing outreach to individuals unable to access current facilities.
Big Picture
This project was an incredible labor of love. I feel beyond privileged to have worked with such a talented group of students, connect with the community, and see my work come to life to bring joy and resources to kids in need.
Working collaboratively with different disciplines was a great opportunity where creativity flourished with a variety of different perspectives tackling the issues. Having the opportunity to work with the library staff to meet their needs and understand the impact this project would have on the community was truly inspiring to me as a designer.
Artifact of Process Video: a brief overview of the project from start to finish.
Process Work
Throughout the project, we collaborated closely with the client. We conducted thorough research through numerous discussions with library staff to understand the specific needs of the intended audience and staff. We met with them throughout the process to show work and gain valuable feedback to keep the design process moving in the right direction. This research and feedback guided our design process and helped us develop flexible, user-friendly, and delightful solutions.
My primary responsibilities on the project were the design of the van wrap, process documentation, and the final presentation booklet. Below is the process of the van wrap design.
Moodboard
We wanted the design to feel warm and safe for patrons. Connecting it to the existing RPL branding using their typeface and iconic purple and green.
With the introduction of the mobile library, we had an opportunity to expand the library branding to include more colors to create a distinct look and feel for the van.
Early Sketches and Iterations
Early on in the process, it became clear how important and impactful this project could be. I had this idea of showcasing that impact on the city of Rochester and having books help build the city up so that the look of the van directly connected to Rochester residents.
The concept of the Rochester skyline made of books was loved by the RPL staff and became our main direction going forward. We also worked on potential new logos for the van and how to encompass all the mobile library had to offer into the wrap. The mobile library is more than just books and that became a key element to showcase both visually and with text all the library has to offer its patrons. Our final name became RPL Go! with the tagline, Moving More Than You Think.
Various color schemes were experimented with as well as the size of the books. The final design encompassed outlined large books for clarity with the Frederick Douglass-Susan B. Anthony Memorial bridge spanning across the front and printers, WIFI icons, and type on the book spines to showcase all RPL Go has to offer.
Final Proposed Design
At the end of the semester, we presented our final concept to city and campus officials and handed off assets and plans so they could begin construction of the mobile library.
Final Van at the First Unveiling