Multilingual Audiotape Walking Tour of Iowa State University Parks Library

The Multilingual Audiotape Walking Tour of Iowa State University Parks Library serves as a vital resource for enhancing library orientation. The Parks Library, as the central library of Iowa State University, caters to a diverse student population of approximately 25,000. The document outlines the necessity of providing effective bibliographic instruction, especially for non-native English speakers. Librarians faced challenges due to limited resources and increasing demands from a diverse user base. The introduction of self-guided audiocassette tours emerged as a creative solution to address these challenges. This initiative aimed to assist international students and faculty in navigating the library's resources effectively. The report emphasizes the importance of adapting library services to meet the needs of a multicultural audience, highlighting the role of technology in facilitating access to information.

The planning and implementation of the Multilingual Audiotape Walking Tour involved several critical steps. Initially, the purpose of the tour was defined, focusing on providing orientation to library users. The selection of languages was crucial, as the audiotape was developed in English and translated into six other languages commonly spoken on campus, including Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Malay, and Spanish. Budget preparation and securing funding were essential to ensure the project's viability. The report outlines the logistical considerations necessary for successful implementation, such as determining the tour checkout point and ensuring equipment security. These steps reflect a structured approach to developing a resource that addresses the needs of a diverse user group, emphasizing the importance of thorough planning in library services.

Despite the initial success of the Multilingual Audiotape Walking Tour, several challenges emerged during its implementation. One significant issue was the rapid obsolescence of the audiotapes. Changes in library operations, such as the introduction of a new OPAC system and shifts in departmental names, rendered the information on the tapes outdated. Additionally, technical difficulties, such as battery failures and the need for regular updates, hindered the effectiveness of the tours. The lack of a structured plan for maintaining the audiotapes contributed to their decline in usage. Feedback indicated that while the English version received positive evaluations, the non-English tapes did not meet the intended needs of the user group. This highlights the importance of institutional commitment and ongoing support for such initiatives.

The Multilingual Audiotape Walking Tour of Iowa State University Parks Library represents a significant effort to enhance library orientation for a diverse student body. The document underscores the necessity of adapting library services to accommodate non-native English speakers and the importance of utilizing technology to facilitate access to information. The insights gained from this initiative can inform future projects aimed at improving library services for multicultural audiences. The report advocates for a critical assessment of librarian intent and institutional commitment before embarking on similar projects. By addressing the challenges faced and emphasizing the need for structured support, libraries can better serve their diverse communities and enhance the overall user experience.