NCompass Live: Small and Rural Libraries Leading with TV Whitespace

Recorded on March 22, 2017

This presentation provides an opportunity for librarians working in small and rural library contexts to learn about the innovative applications of TV White Space (TVWS) technology in their communities. Join us to find out how small and rural libraries can implement this emerging technology and use it to collaborate with other community anchor institutions to advance access, inclusion, and crisis planning.

TVWS is an extremely valuable license-exempt radio spectrum located in the bands for traditional TV broadcast. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently made a portion of these TVWS bands of spectrum available for free, open, and shared public use (similar to WiFi). TVWS, in conjunction with WiFi, allows libraries to extend their networks of internet access strategically across their communities.

Among our objectives are to build awareness of TVWS technology, describe how TVWS wireless networks operate, and help participants develop familiarity with several library TVWS case studies. We anticipate sharing how to plan for a new TVWS network and next steps participants might take. Also discussed will be a recent project, funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, which will give small and rural libraries the opportunity to apply to become a pilot site/early adopter of TVWS.

Presenters: Kristen Rebmann, Associate Professor, School of Information, San José (CA) State University, and Don Means, Gigabit Libraries Network.