Pentagram has designed a new identity for the Library of Congress that seeks to captures the spirit of its universal collections. At the center is a logotype which serves as a metaphor for a bookshelf or bookcase – a place to collect things – and can hold images and typography. The condensed name “Library” is set in Druk Condensed Super and the full name in Sharp Grotesk 20, all in one lockup that can appear in various configurations.
The identity touches all aspects of the institution including publishing programs, brochures and collateral, environmental graphics and signage, and the website. Dr. Carla Hayden, Librarian of Congress, says: “The new visual identity is bold, contemporary and embodies the Library’s global scale in making the collection accessible to all.” The world’s largest library includes 32 million catalogued books and other items. Paula Scher led the project and was assisted by Jeff Close of the Pentagram New York office.
