RPL Go!
Driving Community Connection
In a “special topics” class at Rochester Institute of Technology, I designed a mobile library vehicle for the Rochester Public Library (RPL) with my team over three months. This ambitious project transformed a brand-new Ram ProMaster van into an innovative outreach vehicle that offers library services to underserved demographics. Along with six other designers, I crafted a brand identity and vehicle wrap, specified interior and exterior components, and proposed a major reorganization of the existing Lyell Avenue branch, which will act as the hub for RPL Go and its new hybrid library model. Although my team’s design wasn’t ultimately selected for the final vehicle, the experience of contributing to such an impactful project was immensely rewarding.
Video detailing the project from start to finish. Photos from various team members; video by me.
Mapping the Road to Innovation
In the beginning phases of the project, our team of industrial, graphic, and interior designers collaborated closely with the client. We conducted thorough research and held numerous discussions with library staff to understand the specific needs of the intended demographics. This foundational work guided our design process and helped us develop solutions that were flexible, user-friendly, and delightful.
Design teams discussing needs and desires with the Lyell branch staff.
Team 1 debriefing the discovery session in the studio.
Design concept board.
Prototyping loading and unloading. We later selected a method in which the printer stays static.
Graphics in Motion
In our early discussions with the library team, it became clear that the mobile library needed a graphic wrap that would serve several purposes: to establish its identity as part of the RPL system, to communicate the wide range of services it offers beyond lending books, to generate excitement across all age groups, and to convey a sense of safety and inclusivity. We asked ourselves: how might we achieve these objectives visually? Our answer was “RPL Go!” We envisioned books and internet resources as windows into the world’s knowledge, a theme that shaped the vehicle’s graphic design.
Driver’s side graphics. Illustrations of people using RPL Go!, framed within “windows to knowledge.” Beside them, a bespoke logo and list of services clarify the vehicle’s purpose. Graphics, name, and “windows” concept by me. Logo by me and Haley Giroux. Illustrations by Icons8.
Passenger’s side graphics. A similar design ensures clarity from all angles of the vehicle. Graphics, name, and “windows” concept by me. Logo by me and Haley Giroux. Illustrations by Icons8.
The front of the vehicle maintains RPL’s signature violet for 360° brand recognition.
The rear illustration summarizes all of RPL Go!’s services. Below, badges communicate official affiliation with the City of Rochester and Safe Place. Graphics and “windows” concept by me. Illustrations by Icons8.
Building the Mobile Experience
We envisioned a mobile library that was not only beautiful, but also functional, inviting, and inclusive. We designed modular components that could be easily moved on and off the van, ensuring maximum flexibility for various outreach activities. Our designs included bespoke storage and technology solutions, as well as a ramp system to facilitate accessibility. We also crafted a detailed graphic wrap and promotional materials for the van and its activities.
Cutaway drawing of the mobile library’s components. Full design attribution below. Render by Troa Vimahi.
Cutaway drawing of the mobile library’s components. Full design attribution below. Render by Troa Vimahi.
Custom book cart to maximize flexibility, efficiency, and weight. Storage modules can be easily swapped for versatility. Design and render by Andrew Guillet.
Custom printer drawer to ensure physical security and space efficiency. Design and render by Andrew Guillet.
Staging the Future
With the graphics, components, and interior design finalized, we brought everything together in a series of renders to present to the client. These visualizations showcased not only how the vehicle could be staged for different outreach activities but also detailed how the Lyell Avenue branch would need to be restructured to serve as the hub for RPL Go and its new hybrid library model.
Final vehicle design and example layout for community event. Staging and renders by Haley Giroux.
Example layouts for child-focused and interior events. Staging and renders by Haley Giroux.
Remodeled Lyell Avenue branch community room; also serves as RPL Go! component storage. Room accessible via parking lot for easy loading and unloading of vehicle. Interior design and renders by Emily Krebbeks.
New Lyell Avenue branch multipurpose room, necessary due to community room remodel. Interior design and renders by Muzen Magzoub and Emily Krebbeks.
Presenting to Stakeholders
In December, we presented our final concept to city and campus officials. Our proposal included floor plans, detailed component renders, material lists, and budget estimates. The positive feedback we received underscored the potential of our designs to make a significant impact on the community. The construction of the mobile library is underway, with plans to launch the service in late 2024.
Our team presenting final designs to library, city, and campus officials.
Haley presenting process work to a library stakeholder.
Andrew standing near his full-scale prototype of the modular book cart.
Lessons from the Journey
Participating in this project was a transformative experience. It taught me the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the value of user-centered design. Seeing our concepts come to fruition and knowing they will help bridge gaps in access to information and resources is incredibly rewarding. This project exemplifies my dedication to creating solutions that serve and uplift communities, and I look forward to completing similar projects in the future.
Project Details
My Role
Graphic Designer
Design Thinker
Project Director
Interior Design Team
Haley Giroux
Emily Krebbeks
Muzen Magzoub
Troa Vimahi
Industrial Design Team
Andrew Guillet
Shirley Yang
Tools
Illustrator
Photoshop
Revit
Fusion360
Figma
Timeline
12 weeks
Related Work
Interactive
Interactive
© 2024 Max Stromfeld
All wrongs reserved