‘Just Ask’ Campaign for Library Services

Libraries are treasure troves for book lovers and students everywhere. But are you aware of how much more they offer?

The Brief

University of Birmingham’s Library Services offer students heaps of support. This includes referencing advice, study spaces around campus, and help with academic writing. To access this support, all students need to do is ‘Just Ask!’

Library Services were keen to promote this campaign with a printed/digital poster.

The Story

Account Manager Ben and Content Producer Shiv took the opportunity to hold their kick-off meeting at the Library, which is luckily just yards away from our office. This gave Shiv the chance to get acquainted with the space – where the posters would be positioned, what type of design would be appropriate, and how that design could reflect the interior of the library (which is clad in yellow and blues).

When Ben and Shiv sat down with Claire Browne at Library Services, she made it clear there was a long list of services the library wanted to promote. However, she voiced some concern about ‘overloading’ the poster with content – often, a simpler approach is more effective in a crowded environment. The collaboration process began with Shiv scamping three different designs.

Shiv’s graphic route for ‘Just Ask’ campaign focusing on vector imagery
Shiv’s infographic route for ‘Just Ask’ – focusing on statistics and text

Ultimately, Claire agreed on Shiv’s third option, a photographic route which emphasised striking visuals in block colours. The approach was so successful that we were able to add even more elements! The ‘Just Ask’ campaign now includes bookmarks (a no-brainer) and a tri-card stand. Shiv is also working on an animated version of the poster.

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