W3V2

Since our flat screens are controlled from a computer, we have the ability to display whatever is on the computer’s internet browser on the TVs. This is a great opportunity to display live streaming video of any current events. NBC is streaming live footage of the 2008 Summer Olympics on their site nbcolympics.com. Since China is twelve hours ahead of the US, most of the live footage is at night when the library is closed. However, we are able to show some live events in the mornings and then play prerecorded video from the same website during the day.

Many news websites, such as NBC, are realizing that many people get their news and watch videos online. Therefore, they are making an effort to provide just as many up to date news and events online as they do on TV. For example, during election polling days, important breaking news and sports events like the Olympics and Wimbledon, they often stream live footage. During these special events and “breaking news” type situations, it is great to be able to provide for our patrons current and reliable news and information.

If you didn’t get to watch the opening ceremony for the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics, you missed some amazing dancing, drumming, special effects and choreography. Highlights from the performances can be seen here on the NBC Olympic website.