RPL GO!
Mobile library for Rochester Public Library System
Project Overview
This collaborative project, commissioned by the Rochester Public Library (RPL) and the City of Rochester, challenged two teams of seven RIT students to complete a design task over the course of a semester.
The interdisciplinary teams, each consisting of three different design disciplines, were tasked with developing a design for a new mobile library system to be based at the RPL’s Lyell Avenue branch location.
Project Goals
Research
Throughout the project teams held meetings with Rochester Public Library staff, visited library locations, and conducted observations, that were vital to the direction of the final design
Development & Prototyping
Upfit van
Flexible
A versatile space for the variety of uses RPL GO! will encounter.
A system of carts, tables, and other components adapt to diverse situations.
Carts allow for configurability in or out of the van.
Render - Liz Rutalis
Mobile Hub
An access point for critical technological resources and connected services.
Onboard WiFi and power gives patrons access to internet and print/fax services.
roccitylibrary.org
Onboard power and electronics located in dedicated compartment
Safety &
Inclusion
A safe and comfortable space for staff and community.
Configuration of carts inside the van allow side door to serve as a service window facilitating indoor/outdoor interactions.
Vertical staff lockers provide easy access to personal items
Awning protects from the elements
Ease of use
Functionality that allows smooth and effective operation.
Industrial cargo lift simplifies the loading and unloading of heavy book carts
Floor and wall mounted logistics track provides customizable securement options
Custom cam release locks quickly secure carts to the floor of the van.
RPL Go!
Coming soon…!
All assets, unless marked, created by Bennett Hu.
Design, research, and strategy in collaboration with Baris Aldemir, Lana Derby, Rachel Mikolajczyk, Liz Rutalis, Katie Updegrove, and Xuan You.
Special thanks to Rochester Public Library, Kelly Jahn, and Creative Library Concepts.