Boise Public Library!
The Boise Public Library began a series of construction and renovation projects to modernize and update library locations across the Treasure Valley. While the Library holds strong brand equity and did not require a full rebrand, the renovations created an opportunity to refresh and refine the existing identity.
The heart of this rebrand are the humans of Boise in all their differences, needs and beauty. The updated brand needed to address accessibility through a more dynamic color palette, and establish a clearer, more structured brand system.
The goal was to maintain a refined, recognizable identity that feels welcoming and contemporary, captures a sense of youth, and resonates with the natural and organic architectural decisions introduced through the renovations.
Goals
Align the brand identity with recent renovations and building updates
Resolve a dated, fragmented identity created through past workarounds and compromises
Establish a more efficient, structured brand system with a refined visual expression
Outcome & Impact
The refreshed brand system provides the Boise Public Library with a more cohesive, accessible, and adaptable identity. Improved structure and clarity make the system easier to apply across departments and partners, while the refined visual language better aligns with the renovated spaces. The result is a brand that feels contemporary and welcoming, supports long-term use, and reinforces the Library's role as a human-centered public service.
This project reinforced the importance of systems thinking in public-sector branding — prioritizing accessibility, repeatability, and longevity over trend-driven solutions while respecting the equity of an established community institution.
Team
Aaron Snethen, Art Director
Sam Fischer, Graphic Designer
Jessica Dorr, Boise Public Library Director
Emily Johnson, Boise Public Library COO
Cushing Terrell, Architecture
Project Scope
Brand system refinement and visual identity update
Logo evolution and usage guidelines
Color palette development and accessibility compliance
Application design across print, digital, and environmental touchpoints
Project Involvement
Led visual direction across logo, color, typography, and brand applications
Consulted with Library leadership and stakeholders to align identity with mission and renovated spaces
Designed an accessible brand system balancing community inclusivity and institutional equity
Coordinated guidelines and templates to ensure consistent output across departments and partners