The Norwood Library trustees were told Jan. 14 that staff have procured and tested high-end audio equipment and plan to run a training-and-permission program to let trained community members borrow that kit.

James Perlman said the library completed inventory and testing for new audio production equipment and intends to create an audio/video maker program that will include training, a permissions process and managed borrowing for qualified users. “The inventory setup, and testing of some newly available high end audio production equipment, which we’ll be using in developing an audio and video maker group program,” Perlman said. He described the program as including training, a permission structure and a vetting process for borrowing expensive equipment.

Why it matters: The library expects to offer community members access to professional-grade microphones, a mixing board and related hardware after they complete training. That expands local access to production tools that would otherwise be costly for individual users.

Supporting details: Perlman demonstrated a two-minute audio sample and noted there are four microphones and a mixing board. He said trained members will be able to borrow equipment and take it out of the library after completing required training. Trustees also discussed age limits for borrowing and liability; Perlman said the program will not be limited to staff and that adults would likely be signed as responsible borrowers for the gear.

Ending: Trustees were invited to try the equipment and to help publicize the program once training and borrowing policies are finalized.