After creating a podcast for the recent class assignment, I can truly say ... that it is FUN! (I usually don't blog in CAPS but this assignment was cool.) I am partially wondering if there are libraries that have positions open just for this! How cool would that be? Enough of my excitement rant. Let's get to the real topic.
I did a search for "libraries podcast" and came up with a few library sites. It seems that most libraries use these podcasts as an instructional medium. I think that's a great idea. Not only do they provide another entry point to the library, but they also provide an opportunity to reach out to other communities in their areas. For instance, these podcasts may appeal to the visually impaired community, just like text instructions would appeal to the hearing impaired community.
I am sure that most libraries have a target audience (that has nothing to do with disabilities), however, by providing information in various formats libraries can optimize their outreach. I am not naive. I'm sure that many students of podcasting academic libraries have no idea that these resources exist. I do hope that as librarians continue to use emerging technologies and that students begin to expect these podcasts.
The only drawback I can think of with podcasts is that they take time. You have to outline what works best in audio. For instance, a library's newsletter may have to be reworded for a podcast. Each format needs a different adaptation of the message to be effective. There needs to be a team or committee working together or designated librarians. If not, we will see inconsistencies in the amount of podcasts and when they are done.
I don't think podcasts will replace newsletters, calendars, etc. I think it is just another way of getting the information out there.
I agree that there should be a limited number of people in each organization that works or at least approves podcasts before they are posted, to ensure quality and consistency. Many other people may also have brilliant ideas for podcasts, but bringing it to the "podcast group" for assistance in creating/editing/approving is definitely prudent in today's world. Quality is the main issue here, I think, but in my county, almost EVERYTHING that is put on a county website has to be approved by the county manager and legal department. Smaller libraries and charter schools may have less restrictions. Many of the podcasts created are totally original, but they can contain parts that are copyrighted. There are copyright restrictions on the spoken word as well as print, just like in music, EVEN IF IT IS REWORDED. Additionally, posting interviews requires permissions, as well. Still, I have really enjoyed listening to these podcasts and I find myself looking for them now when I visit other websites.
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