Library signage sets the tone not only of the individual library branch, but also of the whole county library system. All library signage should be positive, brief, and consistent. The following are both positive and negative library signage general rules of thumb:
Positive
- Polite language
- Not verbose – get to the point
- Consistently use library logo/branding
- No typos
- Correct grammar
- Font and font size
- Image that supports content
Negative
- Handwritten
- Too many words
- Clip art (try to use photography if possible)
- Comic sans font (use font that is similar to the library’s standard font selection/branding)
- Passive aggressive
- Too many colors
- Too much going on
A library signage audit is not only an audit of the library’s signs, but it may also relate to the library’s internal and external image including printed materials, customer service, grounds, and community perceptions.
During the signage audit, photographs will be taken of most of the library branch’s signs. Later, a visual report will be created with a list of what your branch is doing well and recommendations for what to change. The report may be used to look more closely at each library branch’s signage and make decisions about the type of signage that may be best suited to that community’s needs.
Does your library need a signage audit or signage training? If so, contact me and I’ll be glad to discuss it with you: curtisrogersconsulting@gmail.com.
Curtis Rogers Consulting, LLC 