News from the Mesa County Libraries 970West Studio
July 2023
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This fully-customizable control surface allows content creators to use buttons, dials, and a touch strip instead of the mouse to control streaming software.
Custom icons and even GIFs can be added to the buttons and touch strip display using Elgato’s Stream Deck app, allowing creators to switch scenes at a glance, rather than struggling with a mouse during a livestream.
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Speaking of livestreams, keep an eye on the 970West Studio class schedule for a new livestreaming class!
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Discover what the 970West Studio staff have been reading, watching, and listening to. |
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Jason's Pick:
Here's an excerpt from a conversation I had the other day with an actual stick in the mud:
ME:
Hi, Stick! I just made a new sound collage/experimental/field recording/bleep-bloorp album, and I’m gonna release it on cassette!
STICK:
Why? Nobody has cassette players anymore.
ME:
Because tapes are cool! They are little, rectangular works of art that you can hold in your hand and smell and collect and trade. CDs and mp3s are boring.
STICK:
Didn’t tapes die out in the 80s?
ME:
Nope! They are back and cooler than ever! There are "Tape Labels" that release new music solely on cassette tapes and are dedicated to keeping this art form alive.
STICK:
Wait. Do you mean to say that other people like cassette tapes, too?
ME:
Absolutely! Here, let me loan you this great book on the subject called "Cassette Culture." It talks about the history of cassettes, has great photos of tapes and
tape-adjacent things, and has some great interviews with people from the tape scene.
It’s very inspiring!
STICK:
You have changed my mind! Tapes ARE cool! I apologize. I shouldn’t be such a stick in the mud.
ME:
That’s fantastic! No need to apologize. Just try to branch out more.
Haha, see what I did there?
"Branch out?"
Because you are a stick?
STICK:
*groans*
Okay. So none of that actually happened, but "Cassette Culture" is a great book. And tapes definitely still have their place in the music world.
Not only can artists release their music on them, but tapes can also be used in the music production process. In today's fully-digital musical landscape, sometimes it can give just the right vibe if your music "hits tape" at some point.
Sure, your music will likely end up back in the digital realm upon release, but a quick side trip into the analog forest just might add a bit of magic to your project that squeaky-clean digital formats just can't seem to sorcel up.
So, go find yourself an old tape deck at a yard sale or thrift store, book a session at 970West, and see if you can conjure up some of your own magic with cassette tape.
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Denise's Pick:
In elementary and middle school, we are taught that the Missouri River is the longest river in the United States. Also known as the "Big Muddy," the Missouri River is home to 150+ species of fish, and 300+ species of birds and animals. The award-winning Oyate documentary opens with a mesmerizing birds-eye view of people dancing in spiral formation while chanting, "Water is life! Water is life!" Welcome to the Standing Rock Indian Reservation where the land and oyate ("people") are nourished and shaped by the life-giving Missouri River.
In 2016 and 2017, people from more than 30 countries and 416 indigenous nations poured into Standing Rock. They pooled together to protect the Missouri River, the sole source of water for oyate living on this reservation and in many surrounding areas. We all probably learned (and formed opinions) about the Dakota Access Pipeline project years ago when it splashed across the news.
There was a lot that I hadn’t known until watching Oyate though. One thing I was surprised to learn was that there were actually two different versions of pipeline plans. The original version was a smooth-lined, fairly direct elbow with a generous curve around Bismarck (which, as we learned in 5th grade, is the capital city of North Dakota). The first proposed route would have gone under a narrow section of the Missouri River. This original plan was rejected out of concerns that a spill or leak in the pipeline would contaminate the Bismarck water supply.
The second version of the plan (which is currently in operation) cuts through one of the widest sections of the Missouri River, snakes across 3 or 4 additional bifurcations of the river, and carves through land in a crooked little line that jags back and forth. This plan appears to be more complicated and less efficient than the original. If an oil pipeline might have spilled or leaked near Bismarck, then might it also spill or leak in a new location?
The current pipeline project is set to cross under sections of the Little Heart River, the Heart River, the Cannonball River, The Missouri River, and the Lake Oahe reservoir. It could spill or leak at any point. It has significantly greater odds of contaminating water sources, since it crosses under significantly more bodies of water. No concerns about that though? Really?
Oyate is packed with gorgeous cinematography, animated infographics, and interviews from people who are incredible, unforgettable, caring, and wise. There is so much to know about this big, muddy river and so much to learn from the oyate who have been living symbiotically with, observing, and protecting this river for thousands of years.
Do you have something to share about water in Western Colorado, or elsewhere? Water has a lot to say, even if it can't talk, can't vote, can't hold a pencil, can't click a mouse, and can't operate a camera. Your homework is to attend the 970West Studio's "Camera Kit Basics" class (at no charge!), check out a digital camera or film kit, and give voice to the water we all depend on! Please note that studio cameras are not waterproof and should never be submerged or splashed.
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Take a 970West Studio class!
Most classes require advance registration. Click the links to register.
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970West Studio Orientation
Take the first step toward using the 970West Studio. Orientation classes last an hour. Not recommended for patrons younger than 16 years without adult accompaniment.
Registration is NOT required, but please bring your library card.
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The next 970West Studio Orientation takes place:
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Studio Q&A
Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday from 10 a.m. to noon
Explore the 970West Studio as we offer Orientations and have staff available to answer your multimedia production questions.
Assistance is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. In-depth/additional questions may require a future Book a Studio Specialist appointment if others are waiting.
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Our next Studio Q&A sessions will be offered at the following times:
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Camera Kit Basics
If you're interested in checking out one of Mesa County Libraries' camera kits, but don't know where or how to get started, this class is for you! We will cover the basics of camera care, lens attachment, manual/automatic settings, ISO, lens apertures, and focus adjustments. This class, along with a valid Mesa County Libraries card and a little inspiration, will have you creating amazing photos in no time! |
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Intro to Digital Cameras
This introductory class for budding photographers will explore the "Exposure Triangle": the camera's ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. The goal of this class is for attendees to understand and be comfortable with the buttons, dials, and settings of digital cameras, and to see how they all work together to record an image.
Patrons are encouraged to bring their own digital camera to this class for hands-on practice. Studio cameras will be available for those not bringing a camera.
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Camera Q&A
Bring your camera, printouts, or just your questions to this meeting of photo-minded friends looking to learn more about photography, share ideas, and hone their craft. Discussions facilitated by photographer Kyle Webb and the 970West staff.
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Intro to Photo Editing
Learn how to edit and enhance your photographs using Adobe Photoshop. In this course you will be introduced to the many editing tools available to remove blemishes, alter backgrounds, and improve or change color and contrast of your photos.
Participants are welcome to bring their own digital photograph to use during the class. While previous Photoshop experience is not required, kindly note that basic computer literacy (mouse/keyboard operation and file navigation) is a prerequisite skill for this class.
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Intro to Art Digitization
This introductory class will familiarize you with the necessary equipment and fundamentals to digitize your two-dimensional works of art using the 970West Studio.
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Green Screen 1.0: Assembly
Let's build a green screen! Explore all the components of the 970West Studio's Green Screen Kit. Students will practice setting up the kit, learn basic green screen theory, and explore common pitfalls and their solutions. Depending on time and interest, students may have an opportunity to practice recording footage with the green screen. Each month, we will explore different layouts and techniques, so students are encouraged to attend multiple times.
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Green Screen 2.0: Chroma Key
Learn the methods used to remove a video's background and replace it with a different image or video. In this hands-on class, we will explore the process of using a green screen, including video capture and the post-production process known as chroma key. Participants are welcome to bring digital images to use during class, provided that these images are saved on a USB storage device prior to class. This class is ongoing, so keep coming back for more fun (and learning)!
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Introduction to Video Editing
In this hands-on course, learn the fundamentals of video editing using Adobe Premiere, a program included in the Adobe Creative Cloud. Participants will learn how to import video clips into the editor, edit clips inside the editor for improved playback, and export video projects so you can share them to your favorite online video-sharing websites. Sample footage will be provided, but participants may also bring a USB storage device with their own footage. This course is ongoing, so keep coming back to develop your skills!
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Introduction to Video Editing takes place at:
Seating is limited, and registration is required.
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Podcast Production
Podcasting is a great way to get your story out there! Join us at 970West Studio, where we will go over microphone choice, multitrack recording, signal processing, mixing, and file exporting.
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Audio Production @ 970West
Join us for Audio Production @ 970West and embark on an exciting journey into the captivating world of audio creation at your local do-it-yourself production studio. Designed for beginners, this hands-on course is your gateway to unlocking the fundamental skills required to produce exceptional audio projects.
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We'll primarily use Alchemy, a sound module included with Logic Pro X, but other ingredients like real-world sampling and vocal chopping may be on the menu. A basic knowledge of Mac OS and music production is strongly recommended. Attend multiple times for best results!
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Audio Plugins
Plugins can help you shape your sound, solve audio problems, and give you access to tons of virtual instruments. Join us in this hands-on class to learn how to add plugins to your next project, as well as discover some of the unique plugins available to you at 970West!
Prior Audio Production class or similar experience is highly recommended.
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Intro to Microphones
Explore the collection of microphones available at 970West Studio! In this beginner-friendly class, we will review fundamentals of sound, learn about different types of microphones and their features, and practice the basic mechanics of setting up microphones and mic accessories.
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Additional technology resources are available on our Technology Guide: Tutorials and Classes page. T here you will find printable class handouts, basic tech help for your computer or mobile device, and a selection of tutorials. Still not finding what you're looking for? Request a Book a Studio Specialist appointment to receive one-on-one instruction for your tech-related topic.
All studio classes take place at the 970West Studio, 502 Ouray Ave., across from the Central Library in downtown Grand Junction.
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Follow the 970West Studio on Instagram |
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Follow @970west_studio on Instagram for regular posts about all things 970WestStudio. |
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A NOTE TO READERS
You are receiving this e-newsletter because you are a patron of Mesa County Libraries and/or the 970West Studio.
- The 970West Studio email newsletter is sent monthly (with occasional special editions) to patrons to keep you informed about what's happening at the studio and your local library.
- The library values your privacy and will not share your email address or other information with anyone.
- You can update your library e-newsletter subscriptions by visiting the "Update Profile" link at the bottom of this newsletter.
- You can also remove yourself from all library e-newsletter lists by visiting the "Unsubscribe" link at the bottom of this newsletter.
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Contact Mesa County Libraries at 970-243-4442 or visit mesacountylibraries.org |
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