[WEB4LIB] streaming audio/video?

[Phillip B. Whitford]

We don't allow any streaming content at present due to bandwidth
considerations. We have a 128K frame relay connection now.  Next month we
are moving up to a T-1 line and I'll allow staff streaming content on an
experimental basis in order to get an idea of the load it puts on the T-1,
the network, and the firewall.

As for downloading mp3 files we allow patrons to download whatever they want
as long as it fits on a floppy drive.  That eliminates most mp3 files.  I
just found out this week that the Gates computers we will soon be getting
come with Zip drives so patrons can download larger files.  We don't provide
a way for the public to play mp3 files at present since they can't
effectively download them. I can see us changing that when the Gates
computers arrive.

Phillip B. Whitford
Braswell Memorial Library
344 Falls Rd, Rocky Mount, NC 27804
252-442-1951
Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Braswell Library

-----Original Message-----
From: web4lib at webjunction.org
[mailto:web4lib at webjunction.org]On Behalf Of Lammers, Deborah
Sent: Friday, December 08, 2000 11:05 AM
To: Multiple recipients of list
Subject: [WEB4LIB] streaming audio/video?


I need some input.  I am wondering if other libraries allow patrons to
download/play streamed audio/video files on public access Internet machines.
What about library staff?  I am thinking of things like Internet radio
webcasts and MP3 downloads.  It is my understanding that streaming uses a
lot of bandwidth.  I am thinking of restricting staff use, at least.  Am I
being overly cautious?

I appreciate any advice you can offer.

Sincerely,

Deborah Lammers, Supervising Librarian
Pamunkey Regional Library, Hanover, VA
Phone (804) 537-6214  FAX (804) 537-6389
dlammers at pamunkeylibrary.org <mailto:dlammers at pamunkeylibrary.org>
http://www.pamunkeylibrary.org <http://www.pamunkeylibrary.org>