National Library of Australia
We worked with the National Library of Australia to define the digital brand and deliver their new website, connecting users with the Library’s vast digital collections. Our approach centred on evidence from real user journeys and the Library’s vision for open, accessible knowledge.
Purpose
The National Library exists to safeguard Australia’s stories and make them discoverable for everyone, everywhere - uplifting public knowledge and cultural memory across generations.
Challenge
As digital content outpaced physical use, critical resources were buried and hard to find. The Library needed a pathway to surface its digital treasures, ensuring users could navigate, explore, and engage with confidence and ease.
We delivered a complete digital rebrand and digital uplift of the National Library of Australia’s public website.
Project highlights
- Catalysed a whole-of-library rebrand by weaving user insights into visual identity and digital presence.
- Enabled rapid redevelopment and launch of a new website theme spanning over 130,000 pages in just six weeks.
- Equipped library staff with a deep, evidence-based understanding of their audiences’ digital needs and motivations.
Grounded in user insight
Our approach began with focused research, listening to readers, researchers, and staff. This evidence shaped every decision, ensuring the redesign reflected how people actually search for and use the Library’s digital collections.
Design system for future growth
We created a flexible design system that anchors the new look and feel. This framework gives the National Library a clear pathway for ongoing updates, supporting consistency and accessibility across more than 130,000 pages.
Pathway to greater discovery
The new website makes it easier for users to find digital resources and navigate the vast catalogue. This shift supports the Library’s mission to connect more Australians with knowledge, wherever and whenever they need it.
Brand uplift with purpose
By weaving user perspectives into the rebrand, we helped the Library showcase its values and vision. The refreshed identity connects with audiences, making the Library’s digital presence feel welcoming and purposeful.
Empowering NLA teams
Library staff gained deeper understanding of user needs and access to practical design tools. This uplift in digital capability means teams can continue to co-create and iterate, keeping users at the centre of future improvements.
