Projects

Podcasting

Podcasting in Academic Libraries is a report I wrote for a media production course in December 2007. It includes a “what is podcasting” overview, an interview/short case study on the University of Georgia’s podcasting plans (which I’m sure have moved along considerably since then), and my thoughts on the value of podcasting for academic libraries.

In 2007-08 I co-produced the Library Survival Guide podcast with Rachel Borchardt. It’s an instructional podcast aimed at Emory University undergraduates. Each episode we had a five- to ten-minute casual but informative discussion about a useful library resource. As often as possible we involved other librarians in the recording — this not only allowed us to bring in subject librarian expertise, but cunningly demonstrated to colleagues that podcasting is not difficult or intimidating. We also made the podcast available in the iTunes Music Store podcast directory, and on Emory’s iTunes U page.

I also co-produced two podcasts only available to staff at my library. We held monthly information forums in which a librarian or staff member presented on a current project or initiative. Our director also held discussions a couple of times a semester in which he discussed the state of the library and fielded questions. Podcasting these to our staff of 200 allowed absent employees to hear the presentations, and provided a convenient archive.

Student Outreach

Student Library Guide

From 2004-2007 I served as chair of Woodruff Library’s Undergraduate Market Council, charged with pursuing outreach to undergraduate students not yet affiliated with a major department (and therefore not served by one of our subject liaisons.) We published an annual new student library guide distributed at fall orientation and to visitors throughout the school year, for which I served as editor-in-chief. 2007-2008 edition (825k PDF).

Undergraduate Research Award

In 2007 Woodruff Library presented its first annual Undergraduate Research Award. I formed the award committee in 2006 and administered the award along with two other colleagues. We recruited faculty judges, publicize the competition, arrange prizes (three awards of $500 each) and take care of a hundred other tiny details. It’s been a great way to showcase the library’s mission of supporting student learning and research.