You Belong Here – Inclusive Art Installation
Worcester Public Library
Innovation Synopsis
The You Belong Here project transformed an overlooked corridor in downtown Worcester into a vibrant, inclusive space that uplifts community voices. Through public art, innovative lighting, and community-driven engagement, the Worcester Public Library (WPL) reimagined its Salem Street side to affirm belonging, celebrate diversity, and enhance safety. Co-created with BIPOC, immigrant, LGBTQIA+, and marginalized communities, the project is now a permanent symbol of identity and pride in Worcester’s civic core.
Challenge/Opportunity
- The Salem Street side of WPL’s Main Library was long seen as a blank, dark, Brutalist façade—underutilized, unwelcoming, and unsafe.
- COVID-19 recovery revealed a need to re-energize civic spaces and re-engage residents with their library.
- Community input highlighted the importance of representation, cultural pride, and welcoming public spaces—particularly for Worcester’s BIPOC, immigrant, LGBTQIA+, and underserved residents.
Opportunity: Transform a neglected public corridor into a beacon of inclusion, safety, and belonging while showcasing local artists and community voices on the side of the community’s public library. The addition of the Ferris wheel and a small scale paint-by-numbers activity allowed members of our community to see the art up close was a further opportunity for connection.
Key Elements of Innovation
- Community-Driven Design: Workshops with Southeast Asian Coalition, Girls, Inc., Veterans, Inc., New Start Brain Injury Community Center, and public participants shaped the theme of belonging.
- Community brainstorm sessions were held by the LGBTQIA-led organization Creative Hub.
- Local Artist Leadership: BIPOC local artist Sharinna Travieso created a permanent art installation reflecting Worcester’s diversity, using direct input from these communities.
- Innovative 3D lighting features enhanced safety and created a dynamic nighttime presence.
- Partnerships: Worcester Public Library, Downtown Worcester BID, WPL Foundation, and local artists/businesses worked together to make this project a reality.
- Community Activation: A large-scale unveiling event drew hundreds, with live performances, food trucks, interactive art, and Ferris wheel.
- Cutting-Edge Approach: Blends art, lighting, placemaking, and marketing to transform civic space into a living statement of inclusion.
Achieved Outcomes
Attendance: Hundreds attended the unveiling, activating Salem Street with joy and pride.
Engagement: Campaign video reached 10,000+ views; Instagram engagement rose 45% during launch month.
Media Reach: Coverage in Worcester Telegram & Gazette, MassLive, and local TV.
Library Impact: The Salem Street entrance saw a 22% increase in use post-installation. Library visitors in October 2024 increased by 20.37% compared to October 2023 (from 35,508 to 42,741). It also increased by 12.68% when comparing September 2024 to October 2024 (from 37,930 to 42,741).
Community Feedback: Dozens of testimonials expressed validation and excitement; local groups requested to host future events in the space.
New Partnerships: Strengthened ties with nonprofits, cultural orgs, artists, and downtown businesses.
Lasting Impact: Permanent installation and ongoing activation of Salem Street have created a sustainable, inclusive civic space that fosters belonging.
Supporting Materials
Instagram Reel: "You Belong Here!"
Instagram Reel: "Just another reason why I love living in this city. 🫶"
