Library Tags – Physical Search System Concept

This was my Master’s Thesis Project in Interaction Design at Chalmers University of Technology.

Timeframe: 2013

Role: Interaction Design Student

Project Type: Research, Interactive Installation

Work done for: Chalmers University of Technology

Full Thesis Report: Amanda Cuello – Interactive installation for public libraries

Project Overview

The role of public libraries is changing because of new technologies that support the dissemination of knowledge. For my Master Thesis, I worked with Hisingen’s Library in Gothenburg to create an interactive installation. This aims to connect the traditional library with new digital technologies and resources.

The concept uses both physical and digital resources, which are increasingly available at libraries. It offers users physical tags to navigate and filter resources in the library.

The process

The exploration involved studying the context carefully and considering different options to connect the physical and digital areas of the library, to allow users to experience both spaces equally.

Step 1: Exploring the context. Included observation of physical and digital space of Hisingen's library and definition of strategy.

Step 2: Ideation and evaluation of alternatives. Included brainstorming and co-design workshop.

Step 3: Designing the installation. Included co-design workshop, scenarios, refinement, visualizations and user feedback.

Cards to use during co-design workshops. They include images of people, devices, media, furniture and spaces, as well as lists of actions and concepts to discuss. They were used for storytelling exercises. — Tools used during workshops for storytelling exercises.