Satellite Teleconferencing and Libraries

Introduction | Satellite teleconferencing | Videoconferencing | Online learning
Supporting distance learning in your library | Distance learning opportunities for library staff
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Satellite teleconferencing has been a popular method for providing distance learning opportunities to library staff for some time now. Although a large majority of institutions with satellite downlink equipment are academic institutions and school libraries, public library staff are often invited to the teleconferences hosted by these institutions.

Satellite teleconferencing defined

Satellite teleconferencing is technology used to send a one-way video broadcast from one site to many sites through the use of satellite equipment. This one-way video broadcast is made interactive through the use of telephones and fax machines. Satellite teleconferencing is a one-way video, two-way audio (1V-2A) experience where participants can see and hear the presenter, but cannot be seen by the presenter and can interact with the presenter only through the use of other audio media such as telephone or fax. Satellite teleconferencing should not be confused with "videoconferencing" which is a two-way video, two-way audio (2V-2A) technology in which all parties are able to see and hear each other in realtime.

Key points about satellite teleconferencing

• satellite uplink equipment and a production studio are required to produce your own satellite teleconference
• satellite downlink equipment is required to receive (downlink) satellite teleconference events
• satellite programs are purchased from the program provider in the form of site licenses
• satellite programs are made interactive through the use of phone/fax by participants
• satellite programs can often be videotaped (if authorized by the provider) for later viewing

How libraries are using satellite teleconferencing

Libraries with satellite teleconferencing equipment tend to purchase continuing education and professional development programs for library staff as well as educational satellite programming for library patrons.If a library does not have satellite downlink equipment of its own, it may partner with an entity possessing satellite downlink equipment to bring the program to staff from both institutions. Many state libraries and library consortia purchase bulk licenses for teleconferences which may be of benefit to library staff.

When possible, The Texas State Library purchases bulk licenses and, with the assistance of volunteer host sites with downlink equipment, makes these programs accessible to library staff around the state. Visit the Library Development Satellite Teleconferences page for more information.

For more in-depth information

For in-depth information including frequently asked questions about satellite teleconferencing technology and links to other satellite teleconferencing resources, please visit the Texas State Library's Satellite Teleconferencing Web Page.

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