You can go your own way: Conducting a signage audit in a health library

Abstract

BackgroundThe Library and Knowledge Services at the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust has been at its current location since 1975 and, in September 2020, it was deemed necessary to examine the library environment and assess the signage.ObjectivesThe main objective was to conduct a methodical assessment of all the current library signage in order to improve the library environment, wayfinding, and clarity.MethodsA methodical signage audit was conducted by library staff, photographing signs, assigning them to categories, and creating a signage map.ResultsIn total, 58 different signs were counted in the library. Of these, 22 signs were deemed satisfactory, 4 should be moved to a more appropriate location, 15 should be updated with a branded design and better messaging, and 17 were recommended for removal.DiscussionThe results demonstrated that there were three main areas where signage could be improved: reducing the quantity of signs, updating the language and design, and the use of ad hoc signage.ConclusionBy assessing the signs and assigning categories and types, areas were identified as problem points that were impacting the library user's experience and small changes were implemented to improve the library environment.