Curtis Rogers Consulting, LLC

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Are you reviewing your library’s signage?

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Dr. Curtis Rogers

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Regularly reviewing and updating signage inside and outside a library is essential for several reasons:

  1. Ensure Clarity and Accessibility: Signage should be clear, easy to read, and accessible to all patrons, including those with disabilities. Regular reviews help ensure that signs use up-to-date language, effective symbols, and accessible formats, which helps all users navigate the library more easily and comfortably.
  2. Reflect Current Services and Layouts: Libraries often update their services, collections, and layouts. Outdated or incorrect signage can confuse patrons and hinder their ability to find what they need. Regular reviews ensure that all signage accurately reflects the current state of the library and its offerings.
  3. Enhance the User Experience: Well-maintained and thoughtfully designed signage improves the overall user experience. It helps patrons quickly find what they’re looking for, understand library policies, and engage with library programs and resources, leading to increased satisfaction and usability.
  4. Maintain a Professional Image: Up-to-date and well-organized signage contributes to a professional and welcoming appearance. Regularly reviewing signage helps avoid wear and tear, keeps the library looking fresh, and reinforces a positive image to the community and visitors.
  5. Facilitate Effective Communication: Signage is a key tool for communicating important information, such as event details, operational hours, and safety procedures. Regular updates ensure that all messages are current and accurately convey the information patrons need to know, which is especially important during emergencies or changes in service.

Regular signage reviews help libraries maintain an efficient, welcoming, and professional environment that meets the needs of all users.

Are you looking for a keynote speaker or staff education program about library signage? If so, I can help – get in touch today and visit my consulting services page for more information.

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About the author

    Dr. Curtis Rogers is a library consultant who has worked in the library and information science field for over 35 years. He has worked at the Union (SC) Carnegie Library, and the Charleston County (SC) Public Library, and retired as the Communications Director of the South Carolina State Library. He has also taught courses at the University of South Carolina School of Library and Information Science. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Geography, a Master of Library and Information Science, and a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of South Carolina. In 2001, he completed the University of the Azores Summer Study Course in Azorean Portuguese Culture and Language and in 2002 completed the Certified Public Manager credential. In 2008, he was President of the SC Library Association. Rogers developed a national library survey on library use of social media for public relations and presented this survey’s results at the 2009 German Library Association Conference and at the State and University Library of Hamburg. He has served as secretary of the board of the Library Marketing and Communications Conference and as secretary of the SC Academy of Authors, as well as chair of the USC School of Library and Information Annual Literacy Leaders (ALL) Awards Committee. He has also served on the Friends of South Carolina Libraries (FOSCL) board and is a member of the ALA CORE Library Consultants group. He is a recipient of the 2015 F. William Summers Outstanding Alumni Award from the USC School of Library and Information Science.