Library as a Content Creator
Public Libraries have a long tradition of creating and publishing content in print and digital formats including; audio, images, digitised local newspapers and commissioning historical works on the local area. With the rapid rise of self publishing there are opportunities for libraries to nurture the aspiring authors in the local community by providing writing workshops, and multimedia labs with the software and hardware required to create digital publications. Public libraries could selectively acquire self published titles and assist local authors connect to existing distribution channels for self published works. The Chief Officers of the State Library Agencies (COSLA) 2010 report explored future opportunities for public libraries in the digital paradigm. Scenario five of the report outlines the role public libraries in fostering local talent and assisting in publishing and marketing works via a collaborative public library press. Douglas County Libraries in Colorado and the Free Library of Philadelphia are both actively exploring the role of public libraries as content creation zones, offering workshops, hardware and software and exposure to readers and indie publishers. The State Library of Queensland’s The Edge facility is a local example of this new trend.