Introducing Toronto Public Library Mobile App
Toronto Public Library (TPL) is a vital resource for the community providing a wealth of services and information. TPL serves over 1.2 million registered cardholders and spans a network of 100 branches, thoughtfully dispersed throughout diverse neighborhood
Solution
Developing a dedicated mobile app is proposed to strengthen the library's digital presence, deliver added value to all stakeholders, and foster increased user engagement. The app will provide timely alerts on library events and offer personalized recommendations, all while ensuring intuitive navigation for users.
Problem Statement
With no dedicated mobile application, smartphone users are forced to use the mobile website. The mobile version of the TPL website limits ease of use for its stakeholders resulting in reduced user interaction. These design challenges are primarily driven by the navigation complexities, restricted access to advanced features and hindered personalized experiences.
Role
User Research
Wireframing
Prototyping
UI Design
Duration
4 Weeks
Tool
Figma
CHALLENGE
How might we address the limitations of the current mobile website to provide a seamless digital experience for library users?
RESEARCH
Observational Research
First, I visited my neighborhood library; observed the arrangement of materials and analyzed the functionality of systems in place. These observations provided firsthand insights to determine the features to be utilized and prioritized in a mobile app.
Express Check-Out
Sections for New Books
Scan or Type Your Library Card
Displaying Monthly Library Events
Site Map
As I explored the current website in mobile, I encountered a hurdle navigating through numerous nested sub-menu items. This disrupts the user flow, leading to discoverability issues and heightened cognitive load for users.
Competitive Analysis
Next, I analyzed the TPL website on my mobile device and tested various city library apps as well as public library, e-book, and audiobook apps to assess their design and usability, identifying strengths and weaknesses in user experience.
NYPL
Libby
Apple Books
Millie
SWOT Analysis
Drawing from the observation and analyses, I was able to embark on a deeper exploration to unveil the strategic insights.
Strengths
The TPL mobile website offers a wide range of content, including books, e-books, and educational resources, catering to a broad audience.
The platform offers convenient online services such as program registrations and digital borrowing.
tpl: map - Library card owners get free admission to popular attractions in the city.
Weaknesses
The complexity of navigation is derived from the website and presents challenges in accessing resources or services.
Users are required to be physically present at the library to make a payment.
Limited personalized content and advanced features reduce user satisfaction and retention.
Opportunities
The app can serve as a platform for partnerships furthering monetary gains.
The app will allow add-on features to be possible such as push notifications and in-app purchases.
Developing a dedicated app presents an opportunity to expand the library’s user base and digital footprint, increase community engagement, and improve the mobile experience.
Threats
With the collection of user data through the app, there is a heightened risk of cybersecurity threats and privacy violations.
Developing a dedicated app would require financial resources and can cost the library more than the budgeted amount.
Long-term users or individuals who are less familiar with digital technology may show resistance to adopting the app.
Key findings throughout the research process
The current mobile website for the library
requires a cleaner content hierarchy and more intuitive organization. Currently, navigating between different features and resources is convoluted, leading to frustration among users.
01
The absence of personalized features, such as tailored book recommendations and notifications for item renewal diminishes user satisfaction and undermines the efficiency of the library's services.
02
IDEATE
User Persona
Sarah is a 32-year-old aerospace engineer in
downtown Toronto. She treasures the feel of paper books and makes it a point to visit the library.
Pain Points
Accruing fines from overdue book returns due to a lack of reminders.
Missing out on relevant events and programs due to lack of timely notifications.
Getting lost and feeling frustrated with complex navigation system while being proficient with technology.
Challenges
Limited time for physical library visits due to work commitments.
Forgetting due dates for book returns due to the absence of notifications, resulting in fines.
Difficulty in accessing advanced features and personalized recommendations through the current digital platform.
Goal
Personalized Recommendations: Tailored book suggestions based on her reading history and preferences.
Event Alerts: Timely notifications about upcoming library events, workshops, and programs.
Reminders: Notifications for upcoming book due dates to help Sarah avoid fines and manage her borrowing effectively.
Empathy Map
Journey Map
Wireframing & Prototyping
Through iterative refinement, wireframing and prototyping cater to diverse user preferences while focusing on functionality and aesthetic appeal, ensuring effective design implementation that meets both user expectations and the overarching purpose of the library app.
Style Guide
Midnight Blue
#001c71
Ghost White
#F2F5FF
Dim Grey
#626262
Eerie Black
#212427
DELIVER
Introducing TPL mobile app
I redefined the way users interact with libraries, providing a seamless and immersive experience that enriches their passion for reading and discovery.
Friendly Reminder
Keeping users informed and engaged with the library's offerings is vital for enhancing user satisfaction. Additionally, it streamlines administrative tasks for the library.
Tailored Books & Collection
By leveraging reading history and preferences, users effortlessly discover books that perfectly align with their interests and tastes. This saves time and enhances the process of discovering new reads, making it more delightful and efficient.
Intuitive Search Engine
The system not only saves users' time and effort by presenting relevant information but also includes features such as autocomplete suggestions and related search terms, which aid users in discovering new content.
REFLECTION
Designing TPL app has played a crucial role in shaping my professional growth, particularly in two areas:
At first, this project was born from my own frustrations. Yet, I soon realized I wasn't alone – many shared my struggles. It taught me the value of small details and the importance of understanding users' needs deeply. This experience reshaped my approach to project management, emphasizing empathy and user-centric thinking.
01
It highlighted the importance of adaptability and flexibility in project management. As I navigated the diverse features of the TPL website, I consistently adapted my approach to address evolving needs and overcome challenges.