Library embraces emerging technology
When Memorial Library (now Hesburgh Library) opened in 1963, it housed an Audio Learning Center that included 76 listening stations and was considered state-of-the-art for its time. It was promoted as a library service that provided a facility for students to “listen to music and the spoken word.”
In the 1980s, academic libraries in general became more conscious of understanding how new media and technologies could be leveraged to support teaching and learning. During this same time, equipment and educational media became more accessible and more affordable.
In 1984, with a gift from Ronald and Lewis Renner, the Audio Learning Center underwent an extensive renovation and upgrade. This is one of many examples that have shown Library commitment to embracing emerging technology in a rapidly changing landscape.
In 1985, given the rising popularity of video tapes, the Library was prepared to make another addition to the list of services. Memorial Library announced that the Audio Learning Center was adding new “visual image equipment” and its capabilities would expand to include slide presentations, tape presentations and video recordings. An article from Access by David E. Sparks featured the following headline: “New Video Equipment in the Audio Learning Center.”
Furniture and equipment were brought together to form a Learning Environment Module (LEM) on the second floor. The slide-projection equipment was a Bell & Howell Ringmaster II rear projector, accepting the familiar Kodak slide carousel. A cassette-tape player was near the slide projector for audio to accompany the still image. The video equipment boasted two Panasonic VHS VCRs and two NEC 13-inch monitors. LEM Literature promised that the viewer would have a typical television experience with BOTH motion and sound!
The library would access educational video and audio through outside sources. It was also expected that faculty might begin to create their own audio-video packages for review as a class assignment – much like the reserve book room.
The Library’s focus on different forms of media and technology and the subsequent impact on teaching, learning and research gained a solid foothold in the 1980s. We have seen that focus and commitment remain steadfast with the passing of time – despite the ever-changing landscape of the digital age.
