Glasgow
Real Learning Project case study

The Libraries Project is funded by various public bodies. The Real Partnership is an association of organisations dedicated to providing the citizens of Glasgow with the best learning possible in the most accessible of ways. The centres are established across a wide variety of settings in the city of Glasgow including libraries schools, colleges, businesses and universities with a similar concept being rolled out nationwide. The key aim of the “Real” initiative is to provide those reluctant to participate in learning with an attractive recognisable and branded learning gateway, and to combat the educational issues of a workforce, one-third of whom currently have no qualifications. The challenge is to encourage and support lifelong learning in a light, airy and contemporary style.

Signs Express (Glasgow) were commissioned to supply signage relating to all aspects of the project. The main brand, the four Real Learning icons, is visible through wall-mounted graphics and around the interior perimeter a series of quotes from a cross section of people from all walks of life are applied to provide inspiration. Continuity of the brand has to be met and the scales of the icons are adapted to suit walls, pillars, windows and doors using numerous types of materials. Strong vibrant colours or lighter, muted pallets are used, as appropriate, to create and maintain the brand presence and also the right ambience.

Each of the centres has a variety of internal signage with the work being produced and fitted within 7-10 days from final artwork. Full and accurate surveys were required to enable the large graphics to be split into sections.