CASE STUDY
Queens NAME EXPLORER
Queens Public Library, Special Project
Queens Name Explorer is an interactive map that explores the individuals whose names grace public spaces across the borough of Queens. Developed in partnership with Queens Memory, a project of the Queens Public Library, the Queens Name Explorer received funding from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation’s Monument Project Initiative.
The goal of the project was to create a repository of biographical details and personal tributes to the people whose names grace public places in the borough of Queens.
📈 PLATFORM IMPACT
1,300 NAMED PLACES
206,343 IMPRESSIONS
32,293 USERS
We tracked analytics through our platform to deliver monthly reports on user submissions, views, and impressions.
🛠️ TOOLS THEY’RE USING
Simplified content DISCOVERY
Collapsible map view for an easier reading experience.
New masonry view so users can explore entries by image.
Add / Edit feature utilizes a form to let users submit photos or entries.
Mobile functionality
Explore stories and walks on-the-go with new mobile functionality
The browser-based application works on both iOS and Android
Enhanced exploration
Custom icons for streets, schools, parks, and more.
Map layers to show neighborhood boundaries, community districts, and city council districts.
Improved search and filters for sorting content.
🗓️ PROJECT Timeline
Queens Memory Project and Urban Archive applied for the Mellon Foundation grant under the Queens Public Library. Urban Archive served as the technology contractor for the project.
Step 1
Our teams developed a roadmap and feature request checklist for the project. We set bi-weekly check-in meetings to push the project toward the launch date.
Step 2
QPL began curating locations and content that would be featured on the site while Urban Archive created an easy way to ingest data into the project site.
Step 3
Our communications teams created a collaborative marketing strategy which included messaging across social media platforms and other relevant channels.
Step 4
Step 5
The site is launched and promoted over all social media channels.
Urban Archive supports QPL with public programs that push the project forward, such as the Wikidata Event: Edit-a-thon at Queens Tech Library to compile records.
Step 6
💬 PARTNER Q&A
What did you wish to accomplish with the Queens Name Explorer Project? How do you think it has been successful?
“My biggest goal was to raise people's awareness of the local leaders in every neighborhood of Queens. The people whose names are on honorary street signs are often not national figures. Their lives are not well known outside of their local communities, but they have done years of service that have improved the lives of many thousands of their neighbors. I love people like this and want to celebrate their contributions.”
Natalie Milbrodt, former Director, Queens Memory
“I really wanted to put a spotlight on the lesser known people who were so important to their communities, but who are often not written about in books or taught in school. We often focus on the big names and events. Those are important, but so too are the local people who did what they could for their neighborhoods and communities. Based on the feedback we've been getting, I think people really appreciate Queen Name Explorer a resource to find out who these people were.”
Dacia Metes, Digital Archives Manager, Queens Public Library
Where do you see the future of this project?
“Now that the Queens Memory team is plugged into the open data community in New York City, I think the possibilities for the reach of this project are much greater. It's exciting to think about the people we profile with Name Explorer entries also being searchable in Wikidata and their places popping up on OpenStreetMap.”
Natalie Milbrodt, former Director, Queens Memory
We will definitely continue adding new names as they come up. We will also continue to work on adding to Wikidata and other open data projects.
Dacia Metes, Digital Archives Manager, Queens Public Library
Do you have any other thoughts you might have on the outcome or process of developing this project together?
“It's always fun to see an idea come to life and this project was especially gratifying to roll out because people we share it with always get it right away. The idea seems like something that should already exist. And I think everyone has had the experience of seeing a name on a sign you pass every day in your neighborhood and having that lingering unanswered question, 'wonder who they were?' Nice when you can give someone a satisfying answer! “
Natalie Milbrodt, former Director, Queens Memory
“I think the collaboration with Urban Archive was key to our success. The map display is really engaging, I don't think it would have been as impactful if it was just a list of text entries. It allows users to search for specific entries but also to just click around and discover new people and places across the borough. I'm really proud to have been a part of this project.”
Dacia Metes, Digital Archives Manager, Queens Public Library
QUESTIONS
Inspired and interested in creating your own special project?