Create an Accessible Exhibit Space

Exhibit Signage & Labels:
Legibility & Readability

Legibility

When it comes to visual displays, there are four main aspects to keep in mind in terms of legibility.

1. Typeface
2. Type Style & Size
3. Reproduction Quality
4. EnvironmentalConditions

Typeface

  • Choose sans serif fonts such as Tahoma, Calibri, Helvetica, Arial and Verdana.
  • Certain font characteristics can make text difficult to read:
    • Condensed, extended or fonts with lighter weights
    • Wide variation in stroke width
    • Thin strokes that fade, break or disappear
    • Letters and numbers that closely resemble each other
      • Shapes of “d” and “a”
      • Shapes of “6” and “8”
Typeface
Environmental Conditions

Type Style & Size

  • Do not set text in all caps.
    • Use only for titles and decorative headings.
  • Avoid the use of script and italic type for essential information.
    • If an exhibition title is presented in an ornate or decorative type, it should be repeated in a clearer type at an accessible location near the exhibition entrance.
  • Provide alternative forms of labels within the exhibit space (Braille, large print, etc).
  • Select type size based on viewing distance.
  • Left justify the text box.

Reproduction Quality

  • Diminish glare on label surfaces.
  • Print only on a solid background.
  • Boost the contrast between text and background.
Reproduction
Type Style & Size

Environmental Conditions

  • Provide sufficient light of 100-300 lux.
    • If this level of light is unsustainable due to an object’s sensitivity to light, allow readers to get closer to the label.
  • Choose label holders that limit glare.
  • Locate labels in consistent locations.
  • Keep in mind the natural line of sight when mounting labels.
    • Labels should be mounted between 48" and 67" from the floor with 54" being ideal.
    • Mount label rails so the top is 40" above the floor.
  • Define labels with color or raised surface.

Readability

One important aspect of accessible exhibition information is to ensure that labels have high readability. This means that a reader can follow and understand the words, sentences and paragraphs. It is essential to consider the content and arrangement of your labels.

Content

  • Avoid the use of:
    • Colloquialisms
    • Complex English
    • Jargon
    • Technical language
  • Use active voice.
  • Provide a short overview paragraph at the beginning of the introductory and thematic label panels.

Arrangement

  • Limit sentence and label length.
    • Sentences should be 15-25 words and labels should be no more than 100 words.
  • Use a line length that facilitates reading.
    • 45-50 characters per line makes the text easier to read
  • Provide line drawings, silhouettes and photographs to help with comprehension.
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