There are a few applications that can help you set up and deliver an online meeting or training.
Doodle is a free web-based application that allows you to easily schedule your meeting or training by polling participants for their availability.
The Sailor Video Network consists of six videoconferencing sites distributed geographically across Maryland. This service is available for use by Maryland libraries, government agencies and non-profit groups.
PC-based live conferencing is available via the Blackboard Collaborate platform. You can sit at your PC and connect to others at theirs by plugging in your headset with microphone (example) and using an online whiteboard with other features in a virtual room. These virtual rooms are available for staff training and meetings. The rooms can only be used for Maryland public library business (and MLA business). To use a room, you must reserve it via the Virtual Meeting Calendar. Please check with your staff development coordinator to make the reservation and obtain the room URL. (Room URLs cannot be posted here due to license agreement). For MLA meetings and events, please contact the MLA Office. Training on how to conduct a meeting or attend a training is available and posted on the Statewide Training & Events Calendar. Registration announcements are also sent to your staff development office for distribution plus they are posted here. Look for "Learn How To Learn Online".
Here are some additional documents that you may find useful:
Blackboard Collaborate Tip Sheet
If you record your session, you can obtain the archive link by contacting your room manager.
Room Managers:
ESRL - Sam Eddington
SMRLA - Jennifer Falkowski
WMRL - Julie Zamostny
Central - Kate Tavokolian
Vyew offers a free product that can be used for PC-based meetings. Participants can comment on a document any time, plus launch a live meeting to further discuss it. The product is currently in beta and has limited seats for free. Vyew is a no download product, but still requires Flash. If you register to use it, you can invite others to your free meeting space.
|
Virtual Meeting Setup 
