Technology
As the library moves into the 21st Century, it will undoubtedly encounter countless opportunities for growth using new technologies. It is of the utmost importance that librarians remain open to emerging technologies, critically evaluating them as they would any other potential library resource, and incorporating them into library services that are meaningful to the user.
Screencasting in the Context of Library Instruction
As a practicum intern at Loyola University Chicago's Cudahy Library, I was asked to explore the ways in which multimedia software and web design can be used to create video tutorials to support traditional in-person instruction. This resulted in the creation of a dynamic website that will be used for instruction on the Classical Studies database L'Annee Philologique. The site includes an introduction, five video lessons on the database's basic functions, and an assessment module that will allow instructors to better understand the specific aspects of using the database with which students have the most difficulty.
I was allowed to present my final product to faculty members and upper-level undergraduates in the Classical Studies Department at Loyola University. The presentation was well received, and the faculty members have provided a list of other academic resources that they believe would benefit from the creation of online tutorials.
LUC Screencast Tutorials - L'Annee Philologique
Digitization and Special Collections
One such way that libraries can bring new services to patrons through technology is the digitization of rare and unique materials. It has been common practice to restrict access to such materials for purposes of preservation. With advances in technology, it is now possible to allow library users new levels of access to, and interaction with, primary source materials while also minimizing the risk of damage to delicate items.
In the paper below, I explored the history and culture of special collections librarianship, and the implications that digitization has for the field. I also examined six online special collections projects, critically analyzing their strengths and weaknesses in an effort to highlight the key features of a successful online special collections project.
Defining the Traits of a Successful Special Collections Digitization Project