Reflection

Brewed Books was a collaborative service design project completed with my partner, Connor Wetli. We were challenged to design beyond traditional spaces, focusing on the Dublin Library and its surrounding area. Rather than staying within the walls of the library, we explored how its presence could extend into the everyday routines of the community.

Our concept centered around the nearby Sweetwaters Café as a key touchpoint. We developed a book vending machine located a few blocks from the library, creating an accessible and engaging extension of the library experience. Users can exchange their café receipt for a curated book or scan it to earn rewards if they choose not to take one. This system connects coffee culture with reading, encouraging interaction in a flexible and low-pressure way.

This project pushed me to think of design as a system of interconnected touchpoints rather than a single product. Working with Connor was an important part of the process, allowing us to refine ideas through collaboration and develop a more cohesive outcome.

Overall, Brewed Books successfully links place, behavior, and community, and it strengthened my understanding of how thoughtful design can shape everyday experiences beyond physical spaces.