Idea Box: Podcasting + Creative Studio
The Idea Box at Quinte West Public Library is your space to create, record, and explore! Launching a podcast, recording an interview, or working on an audio project, this studio is equipped with professional-grade tools to help you bring your ideas to life.
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Programs coming up in the Idea Box:
Quinte West, Ontario, Ontario K8V 5R6 Canada
Interested in using our Idea Box Podcast space? Join us for our upcoming training session designed to help you get comfortable with the equipment and setup in the Idea Box […]
Where is the IDea Box?
The Idea Box Studio is located in the atrium of our Trenton Branch/City Hall building (7 Creswell Dr, Trenton, ON). You’ll find it just to the left after entering through the main doors.
With a 16-foot-long, 7×5-foot-tall glass viewing area, this creative space is designed to be both open and inviting while providing a professional environment for podcasting and audio recording.
What’s in the Studio?
Our Idea Box Studio is outfitted with high-quality audio equipment, including:
UA Volt 476P Audio Interface – A versatile interface featuring:
Four (4) XLR combo jacks (mic/line input)
Built-in vintage mic preamp mode and 76 Compressor for classic analog warmth
ART HeadAMP4 Headphone Amplifier – A four-channel headphone amp allowing multiple users to monitor audio simultaneously with individual volume control.
Two (2) Shure MV7 Dynamic Microphones – Ideal for podcasting and vocal recording.
Two (2) Shure Articulating Mic Boom Stands – Provides flexible and professional mic positioning.
Two (2) Shure SRH440A Studio Headphones – Delivers high-quality audio monitoring for clear and accurate sound.
ART PB 4×4 Power Distribution System – Ensures clean, stable power for all equipment.
Who Can Use the Space?
The Idea Box will be opening soon but is not yet available to the public. Once open, the studio will be free to use for valid Quinte West Public Library cardholders who want to record podcasts, voiceovers, or other creative audio projects.
Eligibility:
Must be 18 years or older
Must hold a valid QWPL library card in good standing
The cardholder must be present during the entire session
Studio Hours of Operation
The Idea Box will be available for use by booked appointment only. Bookings are limited to 2 hours per session and up to 2 sessions per week. Time slots may be split across multiple blocks on the same day.
Monday – Thursday:
- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Friday – Saturday:
- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Podcast Faqs
Yes! A valid Quinte West Public Library card in good standing is required to attend training and book the space for free. Don’t have a library card yet? It’s easy to sign up!
Anything from podcasts and interviews to voiceovers and audiobooks—so long as it adheres to our Code of Conduct and Studio Use Policy. Please note that the Idea Box is not designed for music recordings at this time.
Yes! The studio is set up to accommodate either a solo setup or a conversational setup for up to 2 additional guests. Just let us know your preference when booking!
Please bring a laptop or mobile device that supports your preferred audio editing software and includes a USB port, as you’ll need to connect to our audio interface during your booked time.
We recommend the following:
For Windows users: Audacity
For Mac users: GarageBand
Both are free and beginner-friendly!
Staff are available during the training session to introduce you to the basics of editing. After training, you’re expected to work independently, though online tutorials and resources are always available. If you run into any technical issues during your booked session, staff will be on hand to assist with equipment troubleshooting.
Each booking allows for up to 2 hours per session, with a max of 2 bookings per week. Bookings can be split into multiple blocks in one day, depending on availability.
We recommend that users have a solid level of technical comfort, including using a laptop or mobile device, installing software, and navigating programs like GarageBand or other audio editing tools. If you’re unsure, attending a training session is a great way to find out if it’s the right fit!
