Teen Film Challenge
Gwinnett County Public Library, Ga.
Innovation Synopsis
What started as a way to promote the library’s first Learning Lab to a teen audience has quickly grown into an annual celebrated event. In the process, the library has engaged area teens in the creation, editing, audio/video and production technology that transforms an idea into a viable film.
Challenge/Opportunity
The library’s initial Learning Lab housed creation/editing software and production equipment. While several schools held production classes at that time, teens soon found an after school place where they could experiment with these resources and get assistance if needed. Noting the interest in video and film production, Lab staff created the first Teen Film Challenge in 2016 to showcase student creativity and the immediate relevance of a Learning Lab.
Key Elements of Innovation
The Teen Film Challenge enlists both art and technology in a visual storytelling experience. Students are engaged in many types of literacy as they develop a concept, create and edit a story line and add a face and a voice. Each filmmaker is provided public recognition as films are added to the library’s catalog and accessible via YouTube and Overdrive. The 2018 Award Ceremony was also taped by TV Gwinnett for viewing across the county.
Achieved Outcomes
The initial Teen Film Challenge drew 13 entries judged by library staff. The 2018 Challenge produced 44 films judged in four categories by staff and Atlanta and Hollywood film industry specialists. As the number of Learning Labs grows (four existing and four more planned), the number of area teens that are served by them increases exponentially. The 238 percent increase in entries demonstrates an educational need that the library is meeting now and for the future.
