Graphic Design For Librarians

When: June 9 – July 6, 2025 (4 weeks)

Cost: $165 (Register 2 weeks early for 10% off)

CE Credit: 1.4 CEUs/14 LEUs

Program: 316526

A key element of engaging library patrons is communicating with them effectively. While libraries often have no shortage of staff who excel at verbal communication, few have in-house expertise in visual communication—leaving the design of flyers, newsletters, web pages and other print and digital communications in the hands of “accidental” graphic designers. Attend this four-week course to begin learning the foundational principles of graphic design and elevate the quality of your library’s visual communications.

Learners will be able to:

Understand the basic elements of design and how they interact
Use layout, type, and color strategically
Create visual communications that are more effective and pleasing
Plan and execute design projects more efficiently

Course Audience: Librarians with an interest in graphic design but little to no formal training in it.

Software Requirements

A free Canva account or standard Microsoft Office software can be used for course activities.

Instructor

Elisa Coghlan is passionate about good communication, especially communication that engages both the eye and the written word. She has a decade of experience in designing print and web publications for a variety of library and education organizations, with strong graphic design skills honed through on-the-job mentorship as well as formal continuing-education courses. She is currently the communication and assessment coordinator at Marquette University Libraries.