Our public library holds a rich archival collection that has been hiding in boxes and filing cabinets. The library’s architecture and décor leave lasting impressions on visitors who appreciate the beauty of the physical space. The multitouch table project underway at the library brings our treasures out of our basement and puts them back into our public spaces for all to enjoy.
Using DokLab’s Local Stories software and a multitouch table from SmartPixel, the library is offering new views on the contents of the archives, new points of access to the collection, and new ways of interacting with library materials. This project brings together the work of librarians, software developers, and volunteers to create stories using archival images, historical information, video, and other digital content. Content is transformed into a narrative with which visitors interact – simply by touching the table.
Outcomes:
– Participants will be able to identify the steps and resources required to implement a multitouch table project in a public space.
– Participants will be able to evaluate their own collections for inclusion in a multitouch table project.
– Participants will be able to recognize the challenges associated with implementing this technology.
