Video Conference Technology Programming: Greenwood Public Library's Adventure into the Unknown

Abstract

In 1997 the Greenwood Public Library (GPL) received a grant from Ameritech and the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration/CILC, formerly CEC. Public libraries had for years throughout the United States offered university courses through a variety of distance learning technologies, including the Internet, cable TV and video conference technology. Ameritech and CILC were curious about the possibilities of using program content providers in Indiana to present non-classroom programs to libraries. The GPL Board of Trustees asked me if I would take on the task of developing video conference programming. Working with CILC, I soon saw the potential for life-long learning programs for all age groups. The first task was to find an easy target audience, one that would be receptive to the technology and the two-way interactive capabilities. Children, ages 7-12 are continuously attuned to all kinds of video and audio input, so they were the obvious first audience. The Indianapolis Zoo was quick to work with me in setting up a Summer Series for 10 weeks in 1997. Schools, home school associations and ads in local newspapers attracted a small group that first year. Even the children were not totally aware of the interactive properties of video conferencing. During a program with the seals, one of the seals apparently heard the voices of the children, turned and walked directly over to the camera and monitor and started watching us. That episode got the message across and word of mouth soon spread throughout Greenwood. Video Conference technology had arrived at the GPL.