Digital Media Lab at Long Branch Library

Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) will open its first digital media lab at the Long Branch Library on Saturday, May 17, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m.

Designed with teens in mind, the digital media lab is the first physical space to open as part of the library system’s Studio i Makerspace initiative. The digital media lab is a new 21st century space for teens to learn, explore and create digital media. Through classes and workshops taught by experts, and hands-on, collaborative time in the lab, teens will grow their technology skills and express themselves through creative projects.

Parker Hamilton, MCPL director said, “The digital media lab will introduce teens to new technologies that they might not have the opportunity to work with on their own. It’s an exciting approach to learning that will connect them with other teens and mentors to expand their knowledge and to tell their stories through the digital media, which will be critical to their success in the 21st century.”

MCPL is working with area experts and community partners to offer an array of classes and programming. Classes will be available on topics such as digital photography, storytelling, video production, graphic design, music videos, social media, animation, computer programming, art, and more.

Additionally, teens will have the opportunity to become teen technology volunteers, earning Student Service Learning (SSL) hours by assisting other digital media lab users as they work with the technology.

While the focus of the lab is on teens, anyone older than 12 years of age with an active Montgomery County Public Libraries account can use the digital media lab after attending a brief orientation on lab equipment and policies. All users are required to sign a user agreement. The lab provides space for a maximum of 12 people at one time.

Technology highlights of the digital media lab include: four iMac desktop computers and four MacBook Pro notebook computers equipped with Adobe Creative Suite 6 and Apple iLife — including iPhoto, iMovie, and Garage Band. Additional tools include iPad Air tablets, scanner, video camera, USB audio recorders, microphones, headphones, and a green screen wall.

Open lab hours and a class schedule are forthcoming.

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