ADDING EXCITEMENT BACK INTO THE LIBRARY!

By Karissa Manske

Boise prides itself on its strong sense of community and vibrant cultural scene. One of the most notable institutions where these qualities are consistently at work is within its public library system, or, (as the signs have trained everyone to exclaim) the Library!

Boise’s library locations feature an exclamation point on their outside signage that is hard to miss. While this small punctuation mark may seem inconsequential, it actually carries a lot of meaning. After all, the job of an exclamation mark is to convey excitement, enthusiasm, or strong emotion.

But how did Boise’s library come to add such excitement to its signage? at story begins in 1994 with David Olivier. An avid user of the downtown Boise library location, Olivier thought the simple but respectable “Library” sign failed to properly convey all the wonderful things that the library offered its community. So, with an idea of how to spice things up, he contacted the library’s marketing director. The deal the two made was that Olivier would foot the bill to update the signage if the director could get the green light. The green light was lit and the “Library!” sign was officially unveiled in January of 1995.

Like with any change, public reception was a bit mixed. e majority of community members found the addition charming. However, others voiced their displeasure by sharing it at community meetings or even lling out comment cards at Olivier’s business. In the end, the exclamation mark stayed and grew on people. “Library!” is now trademarked by the City of Boise and graces the facades of all ve locations.

Taking into account why and when an exclamation mark is used in the English language, it could be said that creating the “Library!” signage helped signal the library as a welcoming, dynamic place. ere are few public spaces where book lovers, movie bu s, and technology geeks of di erent levels and ages can all converge. Library locations provide access to its huge collection of books, DVDs, CDs, and video games as well as free Wi-Fi and computers. Beyond what can be borrowed and taken home are the myriad programs and events, including storytime and book club.

Whether you love or hate the choice to include the exclamation point, the “Library!” signs are eye catching and have grown into an endearing Boise landmark.