The Modernization of Signs: A Library Leads the Way to Networked Digital Signage

At Winona State University's Krueger Library, where Kendall Larson is an associate professor and Allison Quam is an assistant professor, informational and directional signs are an essential part of the interior space. Yet the ubiquitous sign and media saturation has challenged them to design and maintain effective signage that is conspicuous and commands a moment of attention. In this article, the authors share how they were able to effectively use the digital signs found in stores, hospitals, businesses, and on billboards in an educational setting that included but was not limited to the library. In the fall of 2009 the university implemented a centrally coordinated digital signage system. The authors describe the steps in their library's commitment to networked digital signage. The authors conclude that the digital signage provides the library and the entire campus with a dynamic, centralized mechanism for communicating. They stress that even though they seek technological solutions to their signage issues, they will continue to use multiple methods of communicating with their patrons. (Contains 3 figures and 1 table.)