Hartford Public Library: A Brand Story 250 Years in the Making

As the renowned institution stepped into its 250th year, the Hartford Public Library (HPL) was celebrating more than history, it was embracing transformation.  Miranda Creative was entrusted with shaping the visual narrative of this historic community asset, we knew the weight of legacy wouldn’t impede a bold step forward.

Our process began with people — delving into the heart of HPL’s community, its humanity, and the vibrant tapestry of diversity woven through its services. From these rich conversations, themes emerged: inclusivity, vibrancy, timelessness, and an unwavering commitment to Hartford itself.

But how do we translate these into a single, iconic symbol? The answer, fittingly, lay within the very essence of HPL: books. Our final logo is a celebration of knowledge, a vibrant trio standing shoulder-to-shoulder, representing the library’s diverse community. But look closer, and the layers unfold.

There’s a subtle “H” formed by the books, a nod to Hartford, the community HPL proudly calls home. And like the library itself, bridging the Connecticut River, the center book rises, creating a connection between its companions. It’s a whisper of the past, too, echoing the shape of HPL’s original location in the Wadsworth.

There’s a subtle “H” formed by the books, a nod to Hartford, the community HPL proudly calls home. And like the library itself, bridging the Connecticut River, the center book rises, creating a connection between its companions. It’s a whisper of the past, too, echoing the shape of HPL’s original location in the Wadsworth.

But one icon, no matter how powerful, can’t encompass everything HPL embodies. So, we crafted a dynamic companion — a grid of bespoke icons, each representing a facet of the library’s offerings. Imagine this grid as a kaleidoscope, its patterns ever-shifting with the library’s programs and events. It’s a living, breathing brand, forever evolving.

Watch the Brand Reveal Video

The dynamic color palette features vibrant hues, mirroring the library’s energy paired with sophisticated tones to capture the library’s timelessness. And in a delightful synchronicity, we discovered our color palette mirrored that of the library’s newly renovated branch — as if the entire building was humming with the brand’s spirit.

On January 3rd, alongside Mayor Arunan Arulampalam and nearly 100 library supporters, we were thrilled to unveil this reimagined vision at the heart of HPL’s downtown library. It wasn’t just a logo launch; it was a celebration of a future brimming with possibility.

For us at Miranda Creative, this collaboration wasn’t just a project; it was a privilege. Witnessing the passion of the HPL team and their deep-seated love for their institution was truly inspiring. Together, we’ve created a brand that not only reflects HPL’s past but illuminates its dynamic future.

So, as HPL steps into its 250th year, we invite you to step into its brand-new story. Explore the vibrant grid, dive into the layers of the iconic logo, and let the spirit of Hartford Public Library weave its magic around you. This is more than just a library; it’s a portal to endless possibilities, and we’re thrilled to be a part of its journey.

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