RPL’s George Bothwell Branch attracts users from across the city. Renovations to the space provided users with additional square footage and a forward-looking design thanks in part to considerable input from the community. The re-opening of the branch presented an opportunity to highlight the forward-thinking approach to library design by RPL, which will provide a foundation of understanding for future changes, in particular a highly-contentious, major change to its Central library.

The best way to promote the new branch was through a grand re-opening event. The event offered activities, tours and both formal and information opportunities to reiterate key messages about the branch and about the innovative and responsive approach to library design. Event promotional materials and media discussions both delivered the key messages about innovation and responsiveness so even if viewers couldn’t attend, they were provided with this information we wished to convey.

Positive response to the branch, the event and the responsive branch renovation greatly exceeded all expectations. Many attendees expressed appreciation for RPL’s responsive design and forward-thinking approach. Specific actions were put in place to capture verbal, written and social media feedback. Of that feedback: - 92 percent provided positive observations about the branch itself - 61 percent indicated a positive response regarding the future of libraries in the city.