The Outagamie Waupaca Library System (OWLS) is one of 17 public library systems in the state of Wisconsin. We are a 2-county system based in Appleton, and we have a staff of 14 exceptional people. We have 17 member libraries of all different shapes and sizes who constantly keep us on our toes.
On December 21, 2007 OWLS’ Library Services and Technology Act grant application, “Enhancing Library Services via Podcasts, Screencasts, and Vodcasts” was approved for funding in the amount of $9,327. The funds are to be used to purchase software and equipment to enable OWLS staff and OWLS member libraries to create and share podcasts, screencasts, and vodcasts with the public.
OWLS staff will be responsible for creating online instructional materials (e.g. podcasts, screencasts, or vodcasts) for patrons on the use of InfoSoup (our online catalog), its patron features, and online databases and research tools. These materials will then be promoted on the InfoSoup homepage, help pages, Research Tools page, and on member library web sites. To enable the production of these materials, a recording and editing workstation will be created for staff use.
OWLS will also create a ‘Casting Kit that will circulate to member libraries to enable them to create their own podcasts, screencasts, or vodcasts. Training and documentation will be provided on how to use the ‘Casting Kit and assistance with the production of materials will also be provided. The Kit will enable member libraries to move traditional library services and programming to the web, thereby extending their resources outside the physical walls of their buildings, reaching patrons who are either unable to attend programs when scheduled or who prefer to attend “virtually.”
You can read the full grant summary PDF if you would like more details about the project and what our plans are for 2008.
Do you know of other library systems doing similar projects? I know that David Lee King has a Topeka Techie Toybox for playing around with difference kinds of equipment and lots of libraries are playing around with podcasting and vodcasting. I’m particularly interested in library systems circulating equipment to their member libraries or training projects that are for more than one library. Post info in the comments if you know of anything. Thanks!
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