British Library Appoints FCB Inferno for ‘Unifying’ Public Libraries Project

FCB Inferno has been appointed by the British Library to work on brand development for a single digital presence for public libraries. This will include developing a unifying visual and verbal language to help expand and diversify the use and value of libraries.

The agency was awarded the contract after a multiway pitch held by the British Library, who was looking for a creative partner to help bring to life the uniquely welcoming character of a local, high street library in a digital space. The project is supported by Arts Council England, who recently invested £3.4million to fund the next phase of the project, with £1million ringfenced for local library sites. The British Library has tasked the agency to “raise and re-energise” the profile of libraries, as well as “deepen affection for them and increase their usage.”

The single digital presence project will look to provide a national platform which local libraries can use to reach a national audience and create a seamless way for users to find and engage with them, in person or online. The brand and national platform aims to meet the need for accessibility and connection – to anyone, anywhere – helping people to get the most out of libraries. 

Liz Jolly, chief librarian at the British Library, said: “We are so pleased to be working with FCB Inferno, as our ambition to develop a unifying online presence for UK public libraries reaches this exciting milestone. Public libraries are vital parts of our knowledge infrastructure - they provide access to all and enable communities to learn from each other.”

Sharon Jiggins, chief marketing officer at FCB Inferno said: “Public libraries occupy such a unique place in our communities and in our hearts and minds. This platform represents an exciting opportunity for people to connect or reconnect to resources, information and inspiration that can enrich their lives  The need for libraries has never been greater, nor more critical.”