Rivington and Blackrod High School Case Study – School Library Wall Art Transformation

School library wall art installed at Rivington and Blackrod High School

Calm learning environment created with school library wall art

When Rivington and Blackrod High School and Sixth Form in Bolton unveiled its newly developed library, the leadership team wanted more than shelving and study desks. They wanted a calm, immersive space where students would feel motivated to read, reflect and explore. Our brief was to design and install impactful school library wall art that would shape the atmosphere of the space while inspiring a deeper love of literature.

The result was a carefully curated series of educational wall art installations depicting scenes from iconic novels, transforming the library into a visual journey through storytelling.

The Brief

Following the investment in a new library facility, the school sought to:

Create a relaxing and welcoming reading environment
Inspire students to explore a broader range of books
Reflect the diversity of literature studied across KS3–KS5
Integrate school branding within the new space
Deliver a professional finish aligned with the wider learning environment design

The library needed to appeal to both lower school pupils and sixth form students, balancing imagination with maturity. The wall graphics had to feel aspirational, not childish; immersive, but not overwhelming.

The Design Process

Literature as Landscape

Working closely with English leads and senior leaders, we developed a concept centred around visual storytelling. Rather than simply listing book titles or quotations, we designed large-format illustrated scenes inspired by:

To Kill a Mockingbird
The Hobbit
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
The Chronicles of Narnia
Northern Lights

Each scene was designed to capture the mood and essence of the text without overwhelming the walls. Soft colour palettes and layered detail helped create a calm atmosphere, ensuring the school library wall art enhanced the reading experience rather than distracting from it.

Cohesion with the School’s Identity

The designs were carefully aligned with the school’s visual identity and branding. Typography, colour tones and layout structures ensured the library felt connected to the wider school environment while maintaining its own distinct character.

You can explore similar school wall graphics projects here:
https://www.designforeeducation.co.uk/wall-displays-signage/

School library wall art depicting scenes from famous novels

Close-up of durable school library wall art with protective laminate finish

The Installation

Professional Finish for a High-Use Space

Libraries are high-traffic environments, particularly during break times and study periods. We specified:

High-performance wall vinyl
Protective matt laminate finish
Scuff-resistant and wipe-clean surfaces
Precision installation for seamless joins

The large-format graphics were installed with meticulous alignment to maintain visual continuity across walls and alcoves.

Durability and Longevity

Secondary school environments require robust solutions. The materials chosen ensure that the school library wall art will retain its colour vibrancy and integrity for years, reducing maintenance costs and eliminating the need for temporary paper displays.

Safeguarding considerations were fully addressed, with all materials suitable for educational settings and professionally installed to ensure safety and longevity.

For further inspiration, visit:
https://www.designforeeducation.co.uk/wall-displays-signage/bespoke-english-wall-art/

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The Impact

Encouraging Reading for Pleasure

Since its completion, the library has become more than a study space; it is now a destination. Students have commented positively on the immersive atmosphere, and staff report that the environment feels calmer and more inviting.

By visually referencing well-known novels, the wall art subtly encourages students to pick up books they may not have previously considered.

Supporting Behaviour and Wellbeing

A thoughtfully designed library contributes to student well-being. The soft tones and scenic imagery create a peaceful retreat within the busy school day.

Positive learning environment design can influence behaviour by setting expectations for quiet study and reflection.

Strengthening School Pride

The transformation has elevated the status of the library within the school. Visitors immediately notice the high-quality finish and cohesive design, reinforcing the school’s commitment to literacy and aspiration.

Strong school branding, integrated subtly throughout the space, ensures the library feels purposeful and aligned with the wider campus.

Ofsted Readiness

Inspectors increasingly consider how schools promote reading across the curriculum. The redesigned library demonstrates:

A commitment to reading for pleasure
Visible celebration of literary heritage
Investment in literacy-rich environments
Strategic corridor displays and departmental identity

The space now clearly reflects the school’s intent to foster confident, independent readers.

Community Perception

For prospective families and the wider Bolton community, the library sends a clear message: Rivington and Blackrod High School values literature, creativity and academic growth.