Fort Walton Beach Library Leaps into the Future!

By Nick Smith

Libraries have long been known for their dry, dusty books and hush-hush staff, not exactly the place for a fiesta. But since the public’s relationship with technology has changed, they are having to change too. Along with its web-connected computer terminals, eBook access and social media presence, the Fort Walton Beach Library has invested in something every visual learner and online influencer could use – a media lab.

As a learning tool and a resource for locals, the lab is a step above other nearby libraries. It’s equipped with cameras, lights, microphones, editing tools, backdrops and reflectors – everything an image-conscious library patron requires for basic videography and photography.

When Library Manager Tricia Gould secured a modest $12,000 grant from the Panhandle Library Access Network, she thought the lab would be useful for patrons starting businesses in the area. She used a space that was practically empty – it contained large format books and local artifacts gathering dust – transforming it into a small studio, available with permission during the library’s hours of Monday to Friday, 8a.m. to 5 p.m.

‘I knew this would be an improvement,’ says Tricia, ‘to provide a resource for the community, businesses, students who have an interest in or are studying video.’

The lab has served many more uses than Tricia could have possibly expected. ‘It’s been used for college applications and a bible study promo,’ she says. ‘A family took pictures of their baby for their Christmas card. The City police, fire department and Human Relations have all used it.’ Each lab visitor undergoes a brief orientation so they know how to work with the equipment, treat it right and see their project through.

‘It’s more work than anyone realizes,’ says Tricia’s colleague Steve Bryan, who has recorded videos for the library and is also a musician. ‘But people are really glad to have the lab. These days, you’ve got to have some kind of web presence.’ He jokes that If you don’t document an event with a camera, it’s as if it hasn’t happened. He’s taken it upon himself to spend several months learning how all the equipment works, focusing on video editing. ‘I love the room, I spend a good bit of time in it,’ he says, ‘I have to be disciplined so I can marry my love of music and video. It’s very interesting.’

Patrons have also found the media center fascinating and useful. ‘Photographers who usually shoot outdoors are able to move indoors, try out the equipment and the space,’ says Tricia. ‘One lady kept coming in taking pictures of little yellow tables in our lightbox. It was for Shark Tank and she gave me one!’

The library also hosted a man visiting with his family from Texas who recorded a job interview for a school principal. He put on a business shirt over his shorts and was able to hold a video conference in a calm and uncluttered environment. ‘Just about anything can be done there,’ says Steve.

Whatever it’s used for, the media room offers a free and forward-thinking resource that is apparently unique in the area. While high schools like Niceville have great video production programs, where do young filmmakers go after they’ve graduated? Thanks to the lab and its savvy staff, Fort Walton Beach Library won’t be gathering dust anytime soon.