Group Project Media Sharing

Scenario Our scenario is that we represent a small library that has seen its patronage decrease over the past few years. A recent survey has indicated patrons are unaware of the material available at the library. The head librarian has asked our group to develop a site using web 2.0 media sharing tools showcasing the library’s collection and services. 

Project Objective

1. Increase use of the library
2. Increase awareness of what the library has to offer 

Project Approach

Our group’s project will be centered on media sharing and libraries.

For a common theme for our project, I suggested we develop a website around providing ideas of what to do on a rainy day. We eventually changed the idea as we felt it may be limiting and we want patrons to visit the library regardless of the weather.

The group split up the various media. I agreed to develop the photo portion of our site.  Brent worked on the video portion of the site, Carolyn developed a podcast, and Dillon developed a power point presentation. I began by setting up a wiki as a way to coordinate the group’s efforts as shown on the common craft show.

Topic Selection

I decided to take photos of various collections within the library highlighting Canadian authors, the Cold War, history, journalism, politics, and non-fiction collections. I also created photos showing a selection of fiction anthologies, classics, science fiction, and general novels because any modern library is more than just books. I also provided a photo selection from the DVD collection. To make the process easier, I based these photos on my own personal collection.

 Taking the Photos

I placed some blank printer paper on a table and arranged each set of books. I then took a few photos both with and without the flash. I found that the flash could either be helpful or a hindrance depending on the light level and the relative glossiness of the covers being photographed. I think if I was to do this again, I would go somewhere where I can control the light better.

  I uploaded the photos to Flicker and added tags and descriptions to each photo. Lastly, I created our project’s wiki page and added the hyperlinks to the photos on Flicker. [To access the wiki, remember this is a social software class] I then invited Brent, Carolyn, and Dillon to see and comment on my photostream.   By showcasing parts of the collection, we hope patrons will learn about our collection, be interested, and decide to check out the library and its collection.

Performance Measurement

It is hoped this media sharing initiative will meet the project’s objectives. Our success will be measured in a year’s time by repeating the survey as well as comparing the attendance and circulation numbers of the library. We expect to see an increase in both numbers. Specifically, we expect to see an increase in the circulation of items highlighted on the web.