FMRT New Member Information
Information for prospective and new FMRT members
Who should join FMRT?
- Any librarian who works with video collections and services in libraries or who has an interest in learning more about video in libraries.
- Video producers and distributors who provide service or products to libraries.
- Other video vendors, such as companies that supply used or out-of-print videorecordings to libraries.
- Publishers of video review magazines and video-related reference books.
- Manufacturers of video playback equipment and supplies.
- Membership in FMRT is open to any ALA member.
What will members receive?
As a member of FMRT, you will be part of a national network of colleagues and leaders in the field of video librarianship. FMRT offers a unique forum for learning about new developments in video librarianship, as well as resources for finding answers to some of the more elusive questions facing video librarians in their daily work. Because FMRT is a relatively small group within ALA, you will have the opportunity to influence its direction and priorities. We encourage active participation on the part of all members. One way we do this is by providing our members with the FMRT Mentorship Program where seasoned professionals can share their knowledge and experience with new video librarians.
Activities and services include:
Programs and Pre-conferences --FMRT usually sponsors a major program at the ALA annual conference. Past programs have covered censorship, copyright, the economics of video production and distribution, and telecommunications policy. In 1997 we sponsored a day-long pre-conference, "From Analog to Digital Video: Making Tomorrow's Decisions Today."
Gala Events --These informal social events have become an extremely popular tradition at the ALA annual conference. Held on Sunday evening, galas feature food and music coupled with a video component--such as screening new films and presentations by filmmakers--offering professional development and fun. Former gala speakers include Studs Terkel, John Waters (Pink Flamingos, Polyester), Felicia Lowe (Carved in Silence, Chinatown), Michael Moore (Bowling for Columbine), and Gordon Quinn and Frederick Marx (Hoop Dreams). FMRT members receive reduced prices and first chance at guest reservations for these sold-out events.
How can I participate in FMRT?
FMRT welcomes a broad range of participation in the organization. You can serve on a committee, chair a committee, participate in informal round table discussions at ALA, offer suggestions or comments at board meetings or membership meetings held at the ALA Midwinter and Annual conferences, help staff the FMRT booth at ALA, and/or assist in program planning and implementation. The options are unlimited, and we welcome your suggestions!
What are FMRT's concerns?
FMRT's concerns are your concerns. Some of the topics we have explored recently in programs and discussions include:
- Copyright
- Collection development and selection
- Censorship
- Video pricing
- Preservation
- Development/implementation of video-related standards and guidelines within ALA
- New and emerging technologies
- Media librarianship for newcomers to the profession
How do I join?
Check the appropriate box when you renew your ALA membership. FMRT membership is an additional $20.00 per year for individual members, an additional $35.00 per year for corporate members, and free for students.
