Richland Library

The Richland Library system recently completed an extensive renovation of their 13 branches located in and around Columbia, SC. County residents voted for a bond referendum that gave the Library the opportunity to create a 21st century library. Their efforts bore fruit; not only does the community have a library that meets the needs of a diverse population, Richland Library also won the prestigious National Medal in 2017 from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The library engaged Herter Design Group to create signage design standards that could be applied system-wide, beginning with the Main location in downtown Columbia.

The wayfinding system is comprised of large scale directory monoliths, amenity and room identification supergraphics, and elevator bank murals. The simple square geometry and heavy forms of the design reflect the brutalist building architecture and are a metaphor for the library as a foundation for the community. A monochromatic palette was utilized so as to not compete with the vibrancy of the interior design, only the elevator murals contain pops of Richland’s brand colors, signaling vertical transportation from afar. Herter Design Group also designed a minimalist ADA and fire/life safety sign system.

Fabricator: Color-Ad, Inc.
Photography: David Lamb