Last modified: Thursday, January 7, 2010
New IUPUI rich media area grand opening set for Jan. 20
Cutting-edge technology spaces will complement the research and scholarly work of IUPUI students, faculty, and staff
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 7, 2009
INDIANAPOLIS -- Made possible through a partnership between the IUPUI University Library and University Information Technology Services, IUPUI's new rich media area delivers high-end video and audio conversion, editing, and transfer tools.
The area, comprising a rich media cluster and four video production rooms, is located next to the computer consultation desk on the library's fourth level, ensuring multimedia support is close at hand.
From 1:30 to 3:30pm on Wednesday, January 20, the University Library will host a public reception to mark the opening of the rich media area. Beginning in the atrium with a short tour of new and planned technology spaces in the library, attendees will make their way upstairs to the rich media area for a ribbon cutting, introductory remarks, and refreshments.
"The rich media area represents a move toward creating informal learning spaces that extend beyond conventional classrooms and laboratories," said Associate Dean for Learning Technologies Anastasia S. Morrone. "These new and remodeled facilities will allow for IT-enabled teaching and learning innovations, as well as flexible study environments for both individuals and groups."
In particular, the rich media cluster includes:
• Nine (9) high-end Microsoft Windows workstations
• Nine (9) high-end Apple Macintosh workstations
• Advanced multimedia software and technologies such as Sony Acid Pro and SoundForge, Camtasia Studio, Blu Ray DVD, and 1920 x 1200 screen resolutions
• Collaborative group workspaces with privacy panels and convenient power
In addition, the video production rooms (two with high-end Windows workstations and two with high-end Mac workstations) can be reserved in advance for access to:
• The full suite of multimedia software, plus additional hardware and software for video and audio capture, conversion, and editing
• C01U condenser microphones for individual or group voiceover audio capture
• Enhanced audio capture reinforced by acoustical panels and sound dampening wall insulation
Said Dean of University Library David Lewis, who also serves as IU assistant vice president for Digital Scholarly Communications, "We're excited about all of the opportunities this new area offers the IUPUI community, from digitizing video footage to embedding sound and animation clips in presentations. By bringing together advanced multimedia resources, services, and support, we hope to enable students, faculty, and staff alike to enrich and enhance their work."
For more information about the rich media area, including a brief video announcement, visit https://www.ulib.iupui.edu/richmedia.
Also during the grand opening event, the University Library will highlight its unique International Newsroom where students can view newsfeeds from around the world and use a SKYPE video calling space, both of which opened in fall 2009. These two new areas are adjacent to the Information Commons group study space created in 2007.
In 2010, the University Library will also build a new Technology Classroom to facilitate its information literacy program.
