Where should you go if you have an assignment that includes an audio or video project, but you don’t have access to high-tech equipment, such as a DSLR camera or a lapel microphone? The University Libraries!

The Multimedia Equipment Lending Library (MELL) will allow CU Boulder students, staff and faculty to borrow microphones, audio recorders, tripods, cameras, smartphone accessories and more through Norlin Commons. Check out our guide to view the full list of MELL equipment.

Equipment can be checked out for 72 hours. To borrow equipment, bring your Buff OneCard to the Norlin Commons Desk and ask for the specific equipment you want. MELL equipment can be used for research and course projects, as well as personal use.

Some of the most frequent requests the University Libraries receive are for equipment to help students in creating multimedia assignments, whether recording a podcast, editing a video project or adding audio to a PowerPoint. In answer to these requests, the libraries are piloting this audio-visual equipment check-out project for one year.

Because MELL is a pilot project, we are interested in hearing your feedback so we can improve future equipment lending options. We'd also love to see projects created with MELL equipment! To share your thoughts, contact norlincommons@colorado.edu.