Video conferencing is becoming more mainstream as a tool to reduce unnecessary or unaffordable business travel, to allow groups to interact or meet more often and more conveniently and to allow users at a distance or those disabled to participate in meetings which might have to be conducted in a central location.

Libraries adopting videoconferencing may find this appeals to business users, offers an opportunity generate revenue and provide a valuable service for non-profits, student groups, or others who may not have access to traditional videoconferencing locations.

Additional common uses include:

• Town hall meetings, government hearings, school board meetings, court functions, and other government-related activities.
• Public health discussions
• Support of special interests or hobbies
• Adult education in areas such as English, literacy, job training, etc.

For more information to see if video conferencing could be right for your library, go to www.kn.pacbell.com/wired/vidconf/ideas.html