BC Libraries Present is a visionary initiative led by Interlink. It has successfully connected award-winning authors with a diverse audience in British Columbia through their innovative virtual author series. These virtual events play a crucial role in a wider library settlement initiative. Interlink is dedicated to developing, supporting, and raising awareness about public library services and other settlement services designed for newcomer immigrants and refugees in British Columbia. This groundbreaking project addresses the accessibility challenges faced by individuals who may have difficulty attending traditional physical literary events.
The Challenge
To overcome the barriers of attending traditional literary events, BC Libraries Present aimed to establish a dedicated virtual community. They required a platform that could facilitate smooth event management, broadcasting, and content accessibility. The objective was to create an inclusive space in a single location and eliminate the necessity of using multiple tools, such as an external website. Crowdcast fulfills these requirements by providing a landing page, a live event space, and a channel where replays can be securely hosted and viewed by attendees.
Navigating the Virtual Landscape with Crowdcast
Lead Producer Jorge Amigo discovered the potential of Crowdcast after attending various events hosted by others on the platform and found it to be the perfect fit for BC Libraries Present. With features such as dedicated channels and simplified event recordings, Crowdcast provided the autonomy and flexibility they needed. The greenroom feature allowed for smooth pre-event preparations with speakers. They also appreciate how submitted questions can be showcased on stage and timestamped for anyone watching the replay.
Unveiling Literary Conversations
BC Libraries Present's virtual author series showcases authors reading from the comfort of their homes. In each session, authors share their screen to show content from the featured book. While many attendees join from their homes, libraries in rural regions host "watch parties," fostering social and communal experiences.
Key Benefits for BC Libraries Present
Unified Channel and Event Recordings: Crowdcast serves as a centralized platform, eliminating the need for external websites or video hosting services. This creates a seamless experience for both organizers and attendees.
Integrated Prep Space: The greenroom feature allows hosts and authors to meet and plan ahead of the live event. This integrated pre-event interaction, taking place at the same location as the live event, ensures all parties are prepared for a smooth and engaging session.
User-Friendly Interface: BC Libraries Present’s attendees appreciate the ease of following the organization’s channel to stay up to date with their events. They also love how easy it is to access valuable event information through the registration page and engage with one another in the chat as soon as they’ve registered.
Aligning with Organizational Goals
Crowdcast has not only supported BC Libraries Present in developing a virtual community but has also provided a secure and comfortable space for literary enthusiasts of diverse backgrounds. Crowdcast’s privacy options ensure a welcoming environment for all participants. This initiative has successfully broadened the reach of literary events, making them accessible to many throughout British Columbia.
Louise
Head of Customer Success. Helping customers grow their audience with live events using Crowdcast's simple live video software to help them reach, engage, and grow their audience.