For a class project classmate Chris Breitenbach and I decided to create a short video documentary exploring the ups and downs of the space at The Harold Washington Library in downtown Chicago. This video is the outcome of our work.
Looking at the space through Library 2.0 goggles we found several issues with signage and physical barriers from the moment we walked in the several different doors.
In short, it’s a sprawling library, almost overwhelming, and it’s very hard to find what you need unless you’ve been there a few times with the patience to explore. The signs are confusing, the many entrances make it seem maze-like, and the popular library is hidden away near one of the entrances.
One thing I noticed was the plethora of guards roving the stacks instead of librarians who could be found behind desks. However, when we asked a librarian for help, she was very nice and helpful, and she gave us maps! If only, I’d had one of those ages ago.
I find the library in general difficult to navigate – and I’ve had an official tour…
It is a beautiful library, especially the Winter Garden, and I know a major redesign is out of the question, but maybe some new signage and a deep review of library policies are in order.
Humm… I was a photojournalist for several years (we would do photo polls all the time in libraries) and I can tell you for a fact that it’s just as illegal to ban someone from taking pictures in a public building as it is a sidewalk (or into a private residence from a sidewalk). I’m not sure how this translates to “filming” but as long as it’s for “news” purposes its legal. There are, however laws against photographing for profit in many places…
This restriction is irksome, and seems to be a clear violation of your Federal rights. I’d love for you to tell the local TV station about this… They love this stuff. It would be interesting to see how fast they do a story “inside” the library, or if prevented, about how the library is restricting First Amendment Rights.
I really don’t think there’s any real law banning filming in Chicago libraries, though security guards tend to ban anything out of the ordinary so they don’t get demerits from their bosses. Next time, call the library and tell them you want the library to be the backdrop to your “student film”, then watch them scramble to help….