Dayton, Ohio-based Wright State University is among the first schools to make available rooms dedicated to podcasting.

“We wanted to bring what’s up-to-date, fun and common for today’s students to the library here at Wright State,” says Sue Polanka, who is the head of references and instruction for the Dunbar Library. “Myself along with a few others came up with the idea so students can create digital files, make Power Point presentations or create videos using our server at the library.”

While Wright State is not the first university to adopt podcasting on campus, they are one of the first schools to have a facility dedicated to the creation and consumption of new media. “We are definitely setting a trend for university libraries,” said Polanka. “By having our own separate room dedicated just to podcasting, we are able to give the students a nice place to come and try out the new software.”

The room itself is now open to users on a first-come, first-served fashion. “We plan to hold an open house for the students in the coming weeks, so we can formally show the room off and explain just exactly what podcasting is to those students who are unfamiliar with it,” said Polanka. The room will be equipped with computers and the necessary plug-ins for a student to come and get started with their very own podcasts. “One of the things that sets us apart is the sound walls we have in place that will allow students to talk or even make music in the most quiet environment we can provide,” says Polanka.

The podcasting room gets its official grand opening in November.

via Wright State Guardian