Municipal Library of Câmpulung Moldovenesc

‘Together with our public, we envision a future and create a present where the Library is a vibrant and welcoming center of information, inspiration and imagination.’

The Municipal Library of Câmpulung Moldovenesc, established in 1936, sought to redefine its role within the community by evolving into a dynamic cultural and educational hub. The goal was to go beyond traditional library services and transform the institution into a gathering place for residents of all ages to share experiences, explore creativity, and connect with one another.

The new visual identity reflects this transformation. At its core is a logo that integrates the initials “BM” with a tricolor motif, symbolizing the library’s commitment to cultural heritage and community connection. An accompanying icon serves as a versatile visual anchor, seamlessly incorporated into signage, digital assets, and promotional materials. This element ensures consistent recognition across various touchpoints. To balance tradition and modernity, the typographic palette combines Merriweather for historical contexts and Kanit for more contemporary applications. The color palette is warm and inviting, embodying the humanistic values of the library while remaining versatile enough to adapt to diverse contexts.

The design process unfolded over a year, beginning with a series of interviews with the library’s leadership to understand their aspirations. Two creative directions emerged: a modern approach and a humanistic one. The latter was chosen for its ability to resonate deeply with the community. Rigorous testing and iterations followed, refining layouts, patterns, and color combinations to ensure they conveyed the library’s ethos effectively. The final identity was applied across a range of materials, including banners, window graphics, and interior signage, breathing new life into the library’s physical spaces.

Since its launch in early 2023, the library has become a vibrant hub for cultural activities, hosting events such as chess tournaments, art exhibitions, book launches, and concerts. The redesign has fostered collaborations with local creatives and strengthened the library’s role as a cornerstone of the community. National recognition soon followed, with the Romanian Ministry of Culture designating the brand guidelines as a standard for cultural institutions during a 2023 convention.

This project underscores the power of thoughtful design to not only refresh an institution’s image but also to deepen its connection with the people it serves. By aligning visual identity with the library’s mission, the project has created a lasting impact, transforming a historic institution into a modern cultural beacon.