Via The M Word Blog comes another example of libraries doing interesting things with video:
We love stories at the library and have discovered a wonderful new way to tell them. Millions of others have discovered it too: YouTube. YouTube hosts videos from throughout the world…at no charge.
I love stories too, especially those that share with users, staff and governing bodies how important libraries can be in the lives of users. And here’s the part I really like:
At the library web site www.gailborden.info/videoextras.html, we are using YouTube to help us tell stories about the library and reading.
And a bit about the contest:
This January and February, with sponsorship from First Community Bank, we’re asking everybody in our library community to pick up their cameras and join the visual storytelling fun. People of all ages are invited to upload a 4-minute (or shorter) video to YouTube. Then send a link to us, for entry into one of two categories: “My Favorite Book,” will be for those who want to tell about their favorite book; or “Community Favorites,” about supporting the art of verbal storytelling. This should involve filming a short, uplifting piece about a person, organization or event that has made a difference in the community. Videos can be funny, poignant, clever or cool, and they must be library-appropriate.
This is a perfect example of what David King calls invited participation. (Make sure you read yet another excellent Web 2.0 post from Mr. King) It’s also a perfect example of building community with users via technology.