Oakland University graphic design students create new logo for Waterford Township Public Library

Students in Oakland University's Graphic Design II course are seeing their classroom work make a real impact in the community through a new partnership with the Waterford Township Public Library.

During the Fall semester, students in Graphic Design II, taught by Associate Professor Meaghan Barry, were tasked with developing a refreshed logo and brand identity system for the library. Working in teams, the students researched the organization, visited the library, and spent several weeks developing concepts before presenting their final proposals to library leadership.

After reviewing the designs, the library selected a winning concept that will now serve as the organization's new visual identity.

"The students at OU knocked it out of the park with all of their ideas and concepts," said Julie Schaefer, director of the Waterford Township Public Library. "It was a hard choice, but we are confident we made the right choice for our rich future."

The project began in summer 2025 when Schaefer connected with Barry shortly after the library celebrated the 60th anniversary of its building. The milestone prompted the organization to reflect on its history while also thinking about the next chapter of service to the community.

"Previously, the library had always used the township's water drop logo," Schaefer said. "However, we wanted something different, something that set the library apart as a place the entire community can rely on as a resource."

Barry said the collaboration offered students a valuable opportunity to apply their design skills to a real client and real audience.

Students conducted a site visit to better understand the building, library patrons, and staff before beginning the design process. After approximately six weeks of development, each team presented a proposed logo and brand system to the library team.

Once the final concept was selected, the winning team shared their full set of design assets with the library, allowing staff to begin implementing the new brand across communications and materials.

For Amber Mazur, a junior graphic design major from Rochester Hills, the experience highlighted the collaborative nature of professional design work.

"I've designed for clients before, but this was a great experience working as part of a team of designers," Mazur said. "I really appreciated that the client clearly communicated what they were looking for when we visited the library. Creating the new brochures was especially fun, and even when our team faced challenges, we were able to come together and produce a design we're proud of."

Library staff said the collaboration also encouraged them to reflect on how the library connects with the public.

"The experience of working with the class was beneficial to our staff in many ways," Schaefer said. "We examined how the library is used by the public, what we want them to know, and how we can strengthen those connections."

The new logo will officially roll out on March 16, with additional announcements continuing through National Library Week in April.

For Oakland University students, the project represents a meaningful example of how classroom learning can extend beyond campus and serve local communities.