Taking in a show

Photo of children watching show in playground from the Library of Virginia's photostream.

Have just finished a leisurely Sunday drive through the Internet’s online video valley. I had already journeyed to YouTube and Google Video. So I was aware of some of its offerings from pranks to parodies. I used to think it was a kinda online Funniest Home Videos show with talking cats and cringe-worthy “accidents” but soon came to realise it was so much more.

• I drove by some other video hosting websites but soon returned to YouTube because it is so easy to use. Used the suggested searches to have some fun discovering and comparing the range of videos available on the topics.

Photo of view in Mount Vernon Canyon, Colorado from the Library of Congress' photostream.

• This tour highlighted the many features of online video’s vast panorama. The range of sources was evident including television shows, film clips, interviews and news items. Examples ranged from slick high-tech content to charming low-tech efforts. The visit emphasized the array of contributors sharing their wares. I found many of the amateur angles just as effective and interesting as the polished professional inputs.

Photo of movie being filmed from State Library & Archives of Florida's photostream. Note the monkey!

• I then ventured into the five suggested videos which demonstrated the possibilities of libraries using online videos. These videos showed the benefits of using them for both the public and staff. Some appealing opportunities included the guide to using the library collection. Certainly think that videos of this sort showing library collections and layouts would be advantageous.

• The potential of online videos as a marketing and promotional tool for libraries was another avenue I saw on this trip. The idea of highlighting projects, services, author talks, exhibitions etc. would be a positive approach to reaching out and engaging clients (& potential clients) in an online environment. In other searches I found libraries using clever videos to grab attention and perhaps change perceptions of libraries. Competitions for the public to create videos about libraries featured often.

• Online videos could play a big part for staff as well. Training videos could be included as a visual adjunct to paper procedures. Highlights of workshops seem an effective method of reaching out to other staff who couldn’t attend. Particularly in large library services it could be an educational tool for staff to become aware of other library branches in their service. They could also be a fun means of collaborating and connecting with other staff on lighter topics.

Had lots of enlightening and enjoyable experiences on this outing. Came across the American Library Association's five of their favourite library-related YouTube videos. Hard to pick a favourite - probably the Little Britain one.