WSIU and the Marion Carnegie Library are teaming up to help students tell the region about what matters to them. Young people and their parents/guardians are invited to visit the Spring ‘24 Southern Illinois News Bureau kickoff to learn how and to register for the bureau!
WHAT: Southern Illinois News Bureau kickoff
WHEN: Tuesday, February 20 at 5:00 p.m.
WHERE: Marion Carnegie Library, McCoskey Room (bottom floor)
206 S Market St, Marion, IL 62959
This innovative program will equip young people with the skills to produce compelling audio and video stories while deepening their understanding of local issues and encouraging active participation in civic life.
At the heart of the initiative lies a commitment to empower the next generation of storytellers. Through hands-on training and mentorship from seasoned journalists, participating students will gain invaluable practical experience in journalism, broadcasting, and multimedia production. By honing their craft, they will not only sharpen their communication skills but also cultivate a keen sense of news literacy, crucial for navigating today's complex media landscape.
Moreover, the Southern Illinois News Bureau represents a unique opportunity for students to become intimately acquainted with their communities. By delving into local affairs and uncovering stories that matter, they will forge meaningful connections with fellow residents and develop a profound sense of civic responsibility. In doing so, they will not only inform but also inspire, serving as catalysts for positive change within their neighborhoods.
"We believe in the power of young people to shape the region’s future and drive meaningful dialogue," says Fred Martino, Ph.D., Executive Director of WSIU. "Through this initiative, we aim to provide students with a platform to elevate diverse voices and contribute to a more informed and inclusive public discourse."
Keith Robinson, MCL’s Coordinator of Library Services, is excited to make this program available to the community. “So many things are happening in the world and in the community, and everyone has their own story to tell. The Southern Illinois News Bureau is a great way for young people to do that.”
The benefits of the News Bureau extend far beyond the realm of media production. By actively engaging with their communities and tackling pressing issues head-on, students will cultivate essential life skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, and empathy. These experiences will not only enrich their academic journey but also prepare them to become informed and engaged citizens in an ever-changing world.
As WSIU and the Marion Carnegie Library embark on this exciting venture, it invites community members, educators, and parents to support the next generation of storytellers. Together, we can nurture a generation of empowered youth who are equipped to shape the future and make a lasting impact on their communities.
The Southern Illinois News Bureau is completely free and open to everyone aged 10 – 18. The program’s home is the MCL Technology Lab, located on the library’s top floor, which includes equipment like cameras, audio recording gear, a green screen, and more.
Funding for Project Next Generation is provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services to the Secretary of State/Illinois State Library under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).
NOTICE: All participants and parents understand and agree that photos taken at library events may be used in social media postings and future promotions.
Guardian supervision is not required during PNG at MCL events.
