Signage & Wayfinding

This section provides resources regarding signage and wayfinding in libraries. Including journal articles, literature reviews, videos, checklists, guidelines and examples, topics range from signage inventories, signage design, wayfinding techniques, and accessibility.

Keywords: accessibility, ADA compliance, anxiety, belonging, campus faculty and staff, campus safety/police, communications, community members, cultural responsiveness, facilities, faculty, international students, international students office, language, library workers, literature review, neurodiversity, physical safety, power dynamics, sensory, students, universal design, visual, wayfinding

Checklists & Guidelines

Agarwal, A., Boothroyd, K., Burns, K., Burrows, J., Jagdeo, J., Moe, C., Nirenberg, L, & Rockey-Harris, K. (n.d.). Cornell University Library signage. (PDF). DEA 470: Applied Ergonomics.

Apelt, R. (2007). Wayfinding system audit. CRC for Construction Innovation, Queensland Australia.

/designworkplan. (n.d.). Introduction to wayfinding.

Meacham, M (2024). A companion guide to the Spring 2024 workshop: Wayfinding & Signage: principles and planning

ProjectENABLE. (2022).  Accessible signage for your library. (includes a checklist) 

Readings & Videos

Almeida, N., & Tidal, J. (2022). Library wayfinding and ESOL students: Communication challenges and empathy-based intervention. Portal: Libraries and the Academy, 22(2), 453–474. DOI: 10.1353/pla.2022.0025

Keywords: cultural responsiveness, language, students, international students office, anxiety, power dynamics, wayfinding

Abstract: This article describes a wayfinding study conducted in an urban, academic library to better understand the experiences of multilingual student populations. The study, which incorporated traditional user experience methods and video ethnography, exposed communication obstacles and spatial challenges encountered by students of English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) when attempting information retrieval tasks. After outlining the methodology and examining qualitative findings, the authors discuss how study findings prompted a reevaluation of local practices, service models, and staff training protocols. Finally, the authors explore the potential for qualitative, empathy-based wayfinding studies to transform library practices and spaces.

Comment: After using a screening survey to determine participants’ language experience and familiarity with English, the researchers had students perform four wayfinding tasks while describing their thoughts. A GoPro camera was used to record the subjects’ movements. A debriefing interview completed the process. Participants spent the most time on the task of finding a book on the shelf. Library jargon and organization principles were the chief obstacles they encountered. Communication failures between library staff and participants, and limited staffing also formed a barrier. Analysis showed not only where communication could be improved, but also provided insight into power dynamics in the library.

Edford, R. (2019). Conducting a signage inventory to improve accessibility at the University of Central Florida’s John C. Hitt Library. Faculty Scholarship and Creative Works.

Keywords: belonging, neurodiversity, sensory, visual, students, communications

Abstract: This poster documents the process of conducting an inventory of the current signage in the University of Central Florida’s John C. Hitt Library to determine ways to make the library space accessible to all users. It also presents suggestions for future signs, as the library undergoes a major renovation. This project grew out of my interest in a presentation on “Supporting Neurodiversity in the Academic Library” by Florida State University at the 2019 Florida Library Association conference. The presentation referenced the publication, Project A+: Serving Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Academic Library, which contained an inventory to help academic libraries evaluate the accessibility of their signage. In the manual, the authors explain that individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder often learn by visual cues. As a result, clear signage is particularly important when serving this population, and this signage in turn benefits all library users. The John C. Hitt Library is currently in the middle of a renovation project, which involves changing the location of the entrances, service desks, and resources. Consequently, the need for clear signs in the new space is especially important for all students, not just those on the autism spectrum. In the summer of 2019, I used the signage inventory in the Project A+ manual to record information about the current signage in the John C. Hitt Library. I then researched ways libraries can incorporate aspects of universal design and drafted a list of suggestions for the future signage in the newly designed library space.

Comment: A poster recording a signage audit of an academic library. Inconsistency in signage appearance was a major finding. The audit also showed a lack of signage at major decision points, such as elevator landings.

Harvard Library. (2023, April 14). Widener Library wayfinding study [Video]. Youtube. (41:38)

Keywords: belonging, sensory, visual, students, campus faculty and staff, campus safety/police, accessibility, physical safety, wayfinding

Abstract: In April-May 2022, Meg McMahon (they/them) helped lead a study focused on users’ experiences of Widener Library. Over 130 participants provided insights into their experiences using Widener Library. The goal of the project was to understand participants’ user needs and possible opportunities to improve wayfinding and services. Come see this talk from July 2022 and learn how the team used a three prong approach, staff interviews, intercept interviews with patrons, and an exit survey for users to understand users’ wayfinding needs within Widener.

Comment: The video provides an exploration of a building that, while visually awe-inspiring, proves to be uninviting and difficult for users to navigate. 

Jalees, D. (2020). Design thinking in the library space: Problem-solving signage like a graphic designer. Art Libraries Journal, 45(3), 114–121. DOI: 10.1017/alj.2020.17

Keywords: ADA compliance, library workers, communications, cultural responsiveness, language, visual 

Abstract: Librarians and graphic designers have a lot in common. Both are information professionals that offer means or cues to help users navigate, understand and solve a problem within a certain space. Without the librarian, the library space itself becomes the interface where users are offered signage to problem-solve intuitively. Because of this, effective communication via signage and wayfinding becomes imperative to the library user experience. By empathizing with our patrons and clearly articulating what the problem is, it is possible to anticipate user needs, address them by utilizing the design-thinking process, and prototype solutions like a graphic designer. However, this is not a permanent, one-time process, and it will need to be repeated whenever the needs of the patrons evolve and new problems emerge.

Comment: Reflection on signage in libraries, using principles of user-centered graphic design. Touches on user categories, fonts, reflectivity, and the process of prototyping.

Long Island Library Resources Council. (2022, January 6). Library signage and wayfinding: Best practices, tips, and guidelines [Video]. Vimeo. (1:19:36)

Keywords: accessibility, cultural responsiveness, language, facilities, communications, ADA compliance, belonging, language, visual, wayfinding

Abstract: In this 60 minute presentation, Mark Aaron Polger will discuss some of the best practice guidelines when designing effective library signage. He will discuss the process of conducting a signage audit (or inventory), and how to use different signage research techniques in order to get feedback from users. Topics will include how to compose an effective signage message, design basics, mounting/placement, and ADA requirements. This session will be highly interactive and practical, as participants can immediately improve the quality of their signs. Additionally, he will discuss the steps in creating a library signage policy document. Lastly, the presenter will discuss digital signage and the different technical specifications needed for a digital signage system in your library.

Luca, E. N. (2016). Signage by design: A design-thinking approach to library user experience. Weave: Journal of Library User Experience, 1(5). DOI: 10.3998/weave.12535642.0001.501

Keywords: universal design, library workers, communications, anxiety, sensory

Abstract: Signage is a powerful visual tool for communication and a crucial component of the library user experience. Signage can welcome, guide, instruct, and delight users, helping them navigate the complex information world of any library. In practice, however, signage can be problematic, revealing tensions between various stakeholders, and contributing to visual noise through information overload; this often leads to signage blindness, library anxiety, and confusion. This article explores how libraries can use a design-thinking approach to improve the user experience in physical library spaces, particularly with respect to signage, based on our experience at the UTS Library, a university library in Australia that serves the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). We found that a design-thinking approach that uses the processes of empathy, problem definition, solution ideation, prototyping, and testing, can help libraries make significant and meaningful changes that can be adopted at relatively low cost.

Comment: How a library redesigned its signage with the help of a resident artist. Generously illustrated with examples of the improved, clearer, playful signage.

Luo, J. (2018). Habitual wayfinding in academic libraries: Evidence from a liberal arts college. Library & Information Science Research, 40(3), 285–295. DOI: 10.1016/j.lisr.2018.09.011

Keywords: students, campus faculty and staff, wayfinding 

Abstract: Habitual wayfinding is a revised wayfinding model for academic libraries, where there is a high percentage of repeat users. Using the unique spatial characteristics of a specific academic library, this study explores the wayfinding patterns of repeat users and evaluates the impact of patrons’ travel habits on their library space usage. The GIS tool ArcMap is employed to visualize library traffic and detect potential patterns of habitual wayfinding. The impact of habitual wayfinding behaviors on library space usage is analyzed. Findings suggest that travel habits formed through past frequent actions can lead to consistent navigation preferences toward certain function units and significant usage differences even within the same function unit in a library. In addition to proposing this modified wayfinding framework and studying its relevance in explaining library space usage patterns, this study also makes a methodological contribution through a novel approach of detecting potential traffic patterns by visualizing routing data and quantifying its details at the route segment level. The framework, methodology, and findings have important implications for understanding space use in academic libraries and can be valuable to libraries considering conducting space evaluation and space rearrangement projects.

Comment: In contrast to many studies, this research examined wayfinding by experienced, repeat users. Librarians plotted the routes of users from entry to destination and coded the data in numeric form in a spreadsheet. Routes to the top destinations at different times were visualized with ArcMap. In the symmetric layout of the floor, library users heavily favored a route to the right. Researchers hypothesized that since more computers were located on the right side, habits might be formed based on past positive experiences in finding a free computer. They speculate that habit may be a more influential factor on routes used than cognition. Knowledge of habits may guide the library in planning maintenance, events, and so on.

Mandel, L. H. (2017). Wayfinding research in library and information studies: State of the field. Evidence Based Library and Information Practice, 12(2), 133–148. DOI: 10.18438/B8395P

Keywords: students, campus faculty and staff, community members, facilities, library workers, literature review, wayfinding 

Abstract: Objective – Often people enter libraries focused on their primary information needs and haven’t considered their need for spatial information to find their way to what they need. This presents unique wayfinding information challenges for libraries. Papers on library wayfinding often include some discussion of the lack of wayfinding research in libraries, but apparently there has been no comprehensive review of the LIS literature on wayfinding. Methods – This paper is a comprehensive review of library wayfinding literature, using the Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts with Full Text (via EBSCOhost) database to collect the dataset. Results – Findings indicate a small collection of library wayfinding research, primarily focused on academic libraries. Conclusion – Empirical research in this area is limited. Suggestions for future research on library wayfinding, including potential foci for that research, are presented.

Comment: A review of the literature on library wayfinding.

Mandel, L. H. (2020). Comparing different methodologies used in wayfinding research in library facilities. Qualitative and Quantitative Methods in Libraries, 9(2), 173–190.

Keywords: literature review, wayfinding 

Abstract: People need to navigate library spaces to access and use library services and resources. People navigate facilities by wayfinding: figuring out where they are and how to get to what they need. The most commonly used methods to research wayfinding in libraries are interviews, task completion, and observation. Each method has strengths and weaknesses, so understanding which methods are most effective for different research purposes is crucial to future research in this area. There does not appear to be a relationship between method chosen and library type, but there is indication that some methods are preferred for different research goals and that multiple methods are preferred over single methods. All methods appear to be efficacious for answering research questions, but multiple method studies appear to be more efficacious than single method studies.

Mandel, L. H., & Johnston, M. P. (2019). Evaluating library signage: A systematic method for conducting a library signage inventory. Journal of Librarianship and Information Science, 51(1), 150–161. DOI: 10.1177/0961000616681837

Keywords: accessibility, cultural responsiveness, language, visual, students, campus faculty and staff, community members, facilities, communications

Abstract: While there is much literature that directs libraries to avoid having too much or insufficient signage, there is no clear guidance on how much signage is “enough” or “too much”. Conducting a signage inventory can be the first step toward determining how many signs a library needs, by establishing how many signs are in the library, of which type, and their condition. This paper proposes a ready-to-use method that any library can use to inventory its signage by adapting the inventory worksheet depending on factors related to the library type. The ultimate goal in developing a standardized method is that it would facilitate comparisons across libraries to attempt development of more specific signage guidelines or a formula that could calculate how many signs are “enough” and “too many” for a library given its type, population, and other criteria.

Comment: Describes the development and use of an inventory form to use in an audit of library signage, applied to three different types of libraries; concludes that a formula to evaluate the optimum number of signs for a given library would be very useful.

Melcher, A. (2023). Signage refresh: An academic library and a graphic design class collaborate to improve library wayfinding. The Journal of Creative Library Practice.

Keywords: sensory, visual, students, faculty, wayfinding 

Abstract: This article describes a library wayfinding modernization project undertaken at a small, public liberal arts university with a limited budget. The project was a creative partnership between the campus library and a graphic design class to create and update physical signage in reaction to library space reconfiguration and remodeling. This collaboration combined the skills and knowledge of a graphic design professor, her Environmental Design class, and the library staff. The process is described from start to finish, including reaching out to the professor, creating a signage inventory, working with the class, selecting the winning design, communicating with campus stakeholders, coordinating the installation of the new signage, and more. This project-based collaboration could easily be recreated or restructured to work within a number of budgets and specific needs.

Comment: A small academic library worked with a class of graphic arts students to redesign signs.

Polger, M. A. (2022). Library signage and wayfinding design: Communicating effectively with your users. ALA Editions. (WorldCat)

Keywords: accessibility, cultural responsiveness, language, facilities, communications, wayfinding 

Abstract: This book connects wayfinding and signage with user experience (UX) design principles to assist libraries in creating positive, welcoming signage that communicates effectively and efficiently. Take a more user-centered approach to crafting library signage with this handy guide. Well-designed signage is clear, direct, and reduces confusion and frustration among library users and library workers alike—and also complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), bolstering accessibility.

Comment: A manual that presents the principles of investigating your library’s existing signage, and designing new signage. Includes advice on accessibility and a chapter on digital signage.

Rakshikar, N. N., & Powdwal, S. (2020). Way finding behavior of university library users in Mumbai: An explorative study. DESIDOC Journal of Library & Information Technology, 40(02), 461–469. DOI: 10.14429/djlit.40.02.15308 

Keywords: students, visual, international students, wayfinding 

Abstract: Libraries often intimidate new or potential users through their size, complexity as well as unfamiliar tools and technology. Observing library users coping with the environment and perceiving their behavior, assists in planning and designing an ideal guidance system. The present article is based on an observation of university library users in Mumbai. The study provides narratives of a variety of tasks completed by participants with average task completion time ATCT) and further explores users’ facial expressions and behavior and conducted cause analysis. Findings revealed that the majority of participants in university libraries felt that wayfinding is complex and not self-oriented even after attending library orientation, due to the complexity of library buildings and lack of appropriate signage. The analysis of ATCT highlighted that maximum users of the university libraries in Mumbai require inordinate time to find their way and locate the required information source. Many participants experienced confusion, disorientation, indecisiveness and anxiousness while navigating and searching for information sources in libraries. It further revealed that major reasons behind prolonged time required in task completion were user specific such as user unawareness about library physical settings, classification schemes, floor-wise splits in stacking arrangement, availability of facilities, etc. The observational findings and recommendations serve as a starting point in defining patron orientation needs.

Su, W., Lu, Z., Sun, Y., & Liu, G. (2021). Let eyes tell: Experimental research on university library signage system and users’ wayfinding behavior. Library Hi Tech, 40(1), 198–221. DOI: 10.1108/LHT-01-2020-0007  

Keywords: visual, students, belonging, wayfinding 

Abstract: Wayfinding efficiency is an extremely influential factor to improve users’ library interior experience. However, few research has studied the different functions of various wayfinding signages for university library users through mobile visual experiment. To fill this gap, the purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between university library signage system design and patrons’ wayfinding behavior features.

Warren, R., & Epp, C. (2016). Library space and signage kindness audits: What does your user see? Partnership: The Canadian Journal of Library and Information Practice and Research, 11(1). DOI: 10.21083/partnership.v11i1.3602

Keywords: belonging, library workers

Abstract: This paper presents an overview of how the University of Manitoba Libraries adapted the concept of a “kindness audit” to identify and document space, usability, and signage concerns and successes across all 20 system locations. The paper includes background on the development of the space experience report methods and potential methodological alternatives when they may be appropriate. Emphasis will be on practical, low-cost assessment, and the right of users to be comfortable and self-navigate in library spaces. The results of the kindness audit identified several major trends overall: use of inconsistent homemade signage, outdated signage for technology and exits, lack of sufficient electrical outlets, and inaccessibility issues at service desks. General recommendations for adapting kindness audits at other institutions are to ensure staff buy-in for the project and do prior planning. As a result of this exercise, a number of improvements have already taken place at the University of Manitoba Libraries. Some benefits of the audit have included safety improvements and enhanced documentation for space-related lobbying efforts at the Libraries.

Comment: Librarians conducted a “kindness audit” of their library after reviewing the literature to establish the assessors’ expectations about what makes signage “positive,” etc. A team of two university employees who were unfamiliar with the library were selected as assessors. Assessors were given sheets to guide their observations and form a record. The team were encouraged to photograph any areas that were particularly good examples or illustrated something hard to explain in words. Standardized reports were delivered to staff at each location. The procedure became a template for further investigations.

Wilkinson, J., & Breneman, K. (2020). Bridging the digital and the physical user experience: Analysis of academic library floor plans. Journal of Web Librarianship, 14(1–2), 28–51. DOI: 10.1080/19322909.2020.1788497 

Keywords: accessibility, students 

Abstract: In library user experience (UX) literature, physical and digital spaces are often studied separately. In academic libraries, different stakeholders often control and operate the logistics of each set of spaces. Additionally, library UX studies seldom consider the physical experiences of users beyond the borders of library websites or buildings. Our survey of 37 U.S. academic library websites found that 97% had some kind of digital representations of physical spaces – predominantly floor plans. A content analysis of those floor plans found that many were poorly designed, and identified two specific themes: non-accessible content and a lack of comprehensive information to facilitate the user journey. This paper offers several recommendations for building more accessible digital representations of physical spaces for the library website. These trends and recommendations are intended to be instructive for managers of library websites and elucidate larger themes about academic libraries. 

Zolkefil, M. A. H. B., & Talib, R. B. H. (2022). Visual accessibility of wayfinding signage in campus library for international students. ARTEKS : Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur, 7(1), 77–84.DOI: 10.30822/arteks.v7i1.1226 

Keywords: cultural responsiveness, language, students, international students office, visual, wayfinding 

Abstract: A campus library is an educational environment that has a wide range of academic activities that are organized and arranged according to hierarchy and activity requirements. When activity in the campus library increases, so does the intensity of a movement that does not correspond to the availability of compelling and wayfinding signage within the library. In fact, on campus there must be international students who are not fluent in speaking and reading the local language. The purpose of the study is to investigate a wayfinding signage issue in interpreting the information through visual graphic for international student in campus library. In this issue, it will examine the importance of visual graphic design used in wayfinding signage for interpreting information and determined the require component which help the topic incorporate a greater user experience through visual qualities such as graphic, text, color and size. Therefore, the (TWO) 2 objectives of this research paper are 1) To identify the current graphic design of the wayfinding signage in the campus library and 2) To determine the graphic design in interpreting information in the wayfinding signage. It will use a qualitative method by John Creswell in collecting the data at several proposed case studies place.

Examples

Alliance Examples

Barber Library, Central Oregon Community College. Locate. (Primo record page)

CWU Libraries, Central Washington University. Select “Show Item On Floor Map” (Primo Search results for “test”)

University of Washington. Scout. (Additional information from UW Information Technology)

UW Libraries, University of Washington. Study Spaces.

Western Libraries, Western Washington University. Find a Space @ Western Libraries.

Western Libraries, Western Washington University. Select “Show Item On Floor Map” (Primo Search results for “test”)

WSU Libraries, Washington State University. Select “Map it!” (Primo Search results for “test”)

Examples from Other Libraries

Cambridge University Library, University of Cambridge. Spacefinder.

Harvard Library, Harvard University. Find a Space.

NC State University Libraries, North Carolina State University. Explore Spaces.

Tulane University Libraries, Tulane University. Select “Map it” (Stackmap) (Primo search results for “test”)

University College London Library Services, Find Your Favourite Library.

University of Colorado Boulder, Find Your Study Space and Quiz: What is your perfect library study spot?

University of Minnesota, Study Space Finder.

Usability Techniques

Usability Techniques to Consider for Signage & Wayfinding:

  • Behavioral mapping. This is about observing and recording the routes that library users take, which may reveal different paths than intended by library design and services. UXSG committee members found this technique useful for thinking about preferred space layout. Andy Priestner suggests this kind of observation can help libraries remove barriers or re-locate services to increase the effectiveness of library spaces.
  • Interviews. Andy Priestner suggests that attitudinal approaches to UX such as surveys and interviews should be included along with behavioral or observational approaches to UX. In this brief write-up, he suggests simple ways to be effective in an interview, stating, “The interview is not about you, it’s about your subject, but you can only fulfill this aim if you let the user speak and become comfortable with your own silence.”
  • Journey mapping. This is a particularly useful and informative process for wayfinding questions. Identifying a common task, such as finding materials in the collection, and then asking users to document the process they go through using journey mapping will reveal common problems and potential solutions.
    • Gibbons, Sarah (2018, December 9). Journey mapping 101. Nielsen Norman Group.
    • Priestner, A. (2021). User journey mapping. In A handbook of user experience research & design in libraries (pp. 273-282). UX in Libraries. (WorldCat)
  • Observation. Observation is an easy and low cost way to understand how users actually use spaces, needs and preferences, which is sometimes different from how the spaces were designed.
  • Photo studies. These can be a photo diary study, a collage of user submitted photos  with context,  a photo interview requesting a few photos from prompts, or simply asking users for a photo of their favorite study spot as they come by a pop up table. All of these methods are a way to capture motivations, emotional state, and generally how people interact with the spaces.
  • Tiny Cafes. The pop-up Tiny Cafe method invites users to give input or participate in short user experience tasks by asking 3-8 questions or completing a few short tasks in exchange for free snacks and beverages. Oregon State University Libraries & Press does this now but it was based off of North Carolina State University.
  • User-led library tours / Touchstone tours. “With a touchstone tour …, you are essentially flipping a traditional library tour on its head. Rather than you giving the tour, you ask the user to show you around instead.”

Partner Groups

Partner Groups to Consider for Signage & Wayfinding:

  • Marketing
  • Accessibility Services
  • Communication Department (or similar; potential to partner with classes)
  • Facilities