Biblioteca Pública José Martí

Public Library in Mexico City

Biblioteca Pública José Martí

About

The Biblioteca Pública José Martí, a public library located in Mexico City, embarked on a critical modernization journey aimed at improving operational efficiency and enhancing user experience. The library relied on outdated methods—handwritten inventory cards stored in three large cabinets—which made searching for books cumbersome and time-consuming for visitors. As part of Baquora’s pro-bono initiative to modernize public libraries across Mexico City, we collaborated with the local administration to develop a digital solution that included a new website, a searchable database, and an efficient application for managing the library’s book inventory.

Services

Web Design & Engineering

Brand Development

Industry

Education

Modernizing Knowledge: Biblioteca José Martí Goes Digital

The Biblioteca Pública José Martí faced significant challenges with visibility and operational efficiency due to manual cataloging systems. Baquora partnered with the library to create a modern digital infrastructure, including a user-friendly website and a robust book search platform, simplifying access to knowledge and positioning the library as a forward-thinking public institution.

Features

Digital Book Catalog and Search Platform

Instant, searchable access that replaces the handwritten card catalog: A PostgreSQL database was integrated with an intuitive front-end application, allowing visitors to search and filter books by title, author, or category. This eliminated the need for manual card searches, greatly enhancing efficiency for both users and library staff.

Admin Dashboard for Inventory Management

Streamlined book inventory maintenance, reducing manual errors and workload: An easy-to-use admin dashboard was developed for library managers to maintain and update the database. This includes adding new books, modifying details, and tracking inventory changes, ensuring real-time accuracy and improved workflow.

Improved Digital Presence

Enhanced visibility and accessibility for library services: A clean and modern one-page website was created to showcase the library’s mission, services, and contact information. The website improves visibility and engagement, offering users a gateway to explore the library’s offerings digitally.

Cloud Hosting for Reliability

Reliable cloud hosting and seamless access across devices: We implemented secure cloud hosting to keep the website and application performing consistently, so users can reach the book catalog and search tool without disruptions.

Challenge

The primary challenge was transitioning the library’s century-old cataloging system from handwritten cards to a fully digital platform. The solution needed to be intuitive for visitors unfamiliar with technology and manageable for library administrators with minimal technical expertise. Additionally, delivering the project as a pro-bono effort required maximizing resources while maintaining a high-quality outcome.

Solution

Our approach combined efficiency, simplicity, and scalability to meet the library’s goals:

  1. Modern Branding: We developed a basic yet effective branding package, including a logo, typography, and a color palette that aligned with the library’s community-focused mission.
  2. Digital Experience: A single-page website was created to improve the library’s online visibility, including sections for “Who We Are,” services offered, and contact information. This ensured accessibility for all users.
  3. Book Search Application: We built a PostgreSQL database integrated with a user-friendly front end, enabling visitors to search and filter books effortlessly. An admin dashboard was also developed for staff to maintain and update the inventory in real time.
  4. Cloud Services & Hosting: We provided cloud-based hosting, ensuring reliability, security, and accessibility for both the website and the book search application.

Outcome

The project delivered concrete results for the Biblioteca Pública José Martí:

  1. Operational Efficiency: Visitors can now search and filter the catalog directly, improving the experience for visitors and eliminating the need for manual card searches.
  2. Streamlined Inventory Management: The new admin dashboard empowered staff to maintain accurate and up-to-date inventory records effortlessly.
  3. Clearer Digital Experience: The new one-page website gives the library a straightforward digital presence where visitors can learn about its services and reach the catalog online.
  4. Community Impact: The pro-bono initiative enabled access to digital tools for underserved communities, aligning with Baquora’s commitment to social responsibility.

By digitizing their catalog and adding an online presence, the Biblioteca Pública José Martí moved from a handwritten card-catalog workflow to a searchable digital system — making its collection easier to access and reducing reliance on manual lookup, while preserving its vital role in the community. It shows how a small cultural institution can make that shift with focused, practical tools.