Embedded Files
A service design project exploring how the National Library of Estonia (RaRa) could better support adults with reading and writing difficulties.
We proposed a three part solution:
Time: 2023
Type: Service Design course, EKA
Team: Anette Jaaniso, Kaisa Uik, Karl-Alder Kuivjõgi, Marie Soosaar
Mentor: Taavi Aher, Andrea Wollensak
Partner: National Library of Estonia (RaRa)
CONTEXT
The National Library of Estonia is presently situated in temporary premises while its main building undergoes construction. In an effort to enhance services during this transition, they approached EKA for assistance.
My team was tasked with addressing the needs of individuals with disabilities and we narrowed it to adults with dyslexia due to the potential for impactful intervention.
SKILLS
Service design and blueprinting
Accessibility and inclusive design
Research and co-design (interviews, survey, workshop)
Prototyping and testing (Figma + print materials)
Presentation and pitching (EKA Design Showcase)
RESEARCH
In Estonia, support for dyslexia is minimal, often limited to children. Adults are left to cope alone, without resources, diagnoses, or community.
“Up to 10% of adults may experience dyslexia to varying degrees.” (UNESCO)
"About 200 people (mostly children) with dyslexia have registered as readers at the Library for the Blind."
"Estonian educators estimate that 15–25% of primary school children have reading difficulties, proportion of dyslexics among them is unknown."
METHODS
Service safari
6 interviews
Ecosystem map
Desk research
Affinity boards
Service map
User journey
Persona (Markus)
How might we...?
Iceberg map
Storyboard
Survey
Co-design workshop
Prototyping
Conclusive research & solution report
HOW MIGHT WE...
transform the library experience to rekindle a positive and inclusive relationship between individuals with reading difficulties and books, ensuring that the library effectively supports their unique needs?
effectively convey information about the opportunities available at RaRa?
help normalize dyslexia and other reading difficulties in Estonia and encourage people to speak up?
SOLUTION
Our final solution that were given to RaRa included a conclusive research, solution report and the service blueprint.
We proposed that RaRa has the ability to be the first to publicly speak about dyslexia and lead as an example for other institutions like it.
DISCOVERY: Posters around the city and social media ads.
The goal is to invite people to listen to the podcast and introduce RaRa's services for people with reading difficulties.
Designed by Marie Soosaar.
Translations: "Listen to RaRa Raadios "Dyslexia Dialogue", "Text is is not an obstacle!"
EXPLORING THE RARA RAADIO & LISTENING TO THE PODCAST
The goal was to give people with dyslexia a platform to share their experience and raise awareness. In the co-design workshop it was brought to our attention that the library already has a podcast and so the series "Dyslexia Dialogue" was born.
My role: I made the mockup and a description of the episodes, who to invite and what subjects to talk about.
You can listen to the podcast intro here.
BROWSING THE WEBSITE & VISITING RARA
The goal was to gather the fragmented information about reading difficulties and dyslexia in Estonia and convey it in simple language. The focus was on adults with dyslexia, since the information available now is aimed at parents and teachers.
I worked on the text and helped with the leaflet design. The webpage and leaflet are designed and illustrated by Kaisa Uik.
What the webpage covers:
What are reading difficulties
What is dyslexia
Practical ways to help yourself and others
List of RaRa services
Additional information
The text is in simple language and it has additional audio support. Take a closer look at the webpage here.
Two kinds of leaflets:
Short one meant for people with dyslexia with clear text, visual clues and practical tools and services.
Longer one or those who want more information.
SOLUTION SYSTEM
PROCESS
Peek behind the scenes of our design process.
We worked efficiently, dividing tasks between us and checking on each other periodically.
REFLECTION
This project opened my eyes to dyslexia and the daily struggles people with it face. It also made me more aware of invisible disabilities in general, both in my personal and professional life. Along the way, I strengthened my skills in service mapping, accessibility, co-design, and teamwork — and gained a deeper understanding of how design can create dignity as well as solutions.
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