A digital media production space – called the Inspiration Lab – will soon open at the Vancouver Public Library’s Central Branch.
The Inspiration Lab will be a place that allows for the creation of tradition, digital and new media and will provide high-performance computers, analog-to-digital conversion, sound studios, video editing suites and self-publishing, all free to the public.
Construction on the 7,500 sq. ft. project started in February with an anticipated opening date of May 5. The innovative space, the first of its kind in Vancouver available to the public for free, will be open to various types of projects and will accompany a host of programs with industry experts in film, game development and digital design, week-long boot camps and multi-session workshops.
The Lab will provide support for all types of digital media production, including:
- Four sound booths with computers, webcams and microphones, including one with dual microphones, an eight-channel audio mixer and monitor
- An 11-by-16-foot recording room with available green screen, video camera with dolly, studio microphones and LED video lighting, along with a connected producer space with a computer and 18-channel audio mixer
- 12 high-performance desktop computers with Microsoft Photo Gallery and Adobe Photoshop (photography), Microsoft Movie Maker and Adobe Premiere (video), Reaper and Audacity (audio), Sigil and Adobe InDesign (publishing and e-publishing)
- Analog-to-digital conversion for video and sound: VHS, Hi8 and 8mm, and audio cassette
- Flatbed scanning stations for photos, negatives or slides
- Presentation and training area for up to 16 people with a large LCD screen and integrated wireless presentation system.
The VPL’s diversion into the digital realm will also include a free subscription to lynda.com, the industry leading destination for online courses in graphic design, photography, video and more. Users will be able to access the site within the library or from anywhere by using their VPL card.
“Libraries have always been about ensuring everyone has access to information, ideas, knowledge, cultural expressions – things needed to inspire and inform us. The Inspiration Lab is part of the VPL’s digital strategy, which is in sync with the city and included consultation with the community and leaders in the digital space,” says Christina de Castell, VPL’s director of collections and technology.
“The lab will give Vancouverites a free space to explore, capture stories and bring ideas to life through digital media. It will be a hub for learning and experimenting – a place where new generations of digital and creative leaders can get their start.”
The Inspiration Lab will be available for booking and some programs in the lab will require registration. The space, equipment and software will be free to use.