One of the goals on the library’s strategic plan is to improve technology in public spaces. One of the spaces that really needed an update was our primary meeting space for patrons. This area is used daily, and the AV setup was very outdated. The inputs in the wall didn’t include HDMI. The projector had to be wheeled in on a cart. The speaker system was external and had to be set up every time, with cords around the room posing a potential tripping hazard. We really needed an update!
Last week, we completed the installation of the new audiovisual setup in that space. We now have two high-quality projectors, one for each side of the room. The HDMI input is primary but includes dongles that fit any and every device imaginable. Speakers were installed in the ceiling, and there are sensors that make adjustments to the sound and the projection quality based on certain conditions. It’s super nice! We are so pleased with this solution as it offers a huge improvement over what we had in place for nearly 20 years.
The total cost of the project was $40,000, and the Carnegie grant money covered 25 percent of our total project costs. What a wonderful and unexpected gift!
When we demonstrated the new setup for our library board and staff, they were so impressed with it! They immediately recognized what a huge improvement it was and appreciated how easy it would be for our patrons to use. Plus, the quality of the sound and images projected is top-notch.
This story was submitted by a Carnegie Library that received a $10,000 gift as part of the Carnegie Libraries 250 initiative. Did your library receive a gift? Share how you’re spending it here.
