Although the Central Library is a quiet place for studying, it is frequented by thousands of students every day. Students in particular visit the building daily, using it as a place to study, work and meet. However, the various renovation works are constantly changing the usual routes and access routes. It quickly became clear to those responsible that in order to prevent confusion, a well-thought-out and highly visible communication solution was needed that could grow flexibly with the construction phases. 

Construction site communication is therefore designed as a dynamic system that can be repeatedly adapted during the renovation period and provides new temporary orientation aids. Signposts, information islands and signage do not simply disappear after use - they are relocated to other parts of the construction site. This ensures that communication remains up-to-date and recognizable. 

Close to the students 

At the heart of the communication are life-size figures that directly appeal to the target group - students and library users. These figures bear the Central Library logo as information carriers, are designed to be appealing and convey orientation information with a wink. They deliberately stand out from the permanent signage in terms of color and form, thus ensuring attention. 

The design aims to present the renovation not a disruptive or annoying, but as part of the library that communicates with its users on an equal footing. This creates a trusting connection between the institution and its visitors, which significantly mitigates the annoying aspects of construction site. 

From the facade to the digital application 

Construction site communication extends across many touchpoints: a large poster on the historic facade explains the temporary relocation of the main entrance, which is currently located at the rear of the building. Inside the building, generously designed temporary walls create an entrance area that provides information about further destinations. Mobile signposts guide visitors precisely through the room structures, which have been changed due to the construction work.   

In addition, the Central Library's website provides up-to-date information on the progress of the construction work, offering visitors the opportunity to find out about the status of the renovation in advance.

Even small elements such as bookmarks convey the messages, creating a uniform and recognizable communication world - from analog to digital. 

Transparency creates understanding and acceptance 

The Central Library has deliberately chosen not to hide the construction site or to communicate only provisionally. Instead, it has opted for openness: visitors are informed about what is being built, why and how long the work will take. This transparency creates understanding and significantly reduces frustration about temporary restrictions.

With this strategy, the Central Library has succeeded in positioning itself as a modern, innovative and approachable institution. Especially during a phase of change, the core task - imparting knowledge and promoting a culture of reading - remains the focus. The entertaining and friendly communication about the construction site transforms potential irritations and inconvenience into positive brand experiences. The Zurich Central Library's communication about the construction site is a successful example of how change and renewal can be communicated in a transparent and user-oriented manner. This ensures that the Central Library remains a lively, attractive place - regardless of what changes are made to the building.