Nominations for the 2008 Jodi Awards for excellence in accessible cultural websites and digital media close in two weeks and organisations are being encouraged to meet the deadline day on October 3.
Museums galleries, libraries or archives who have premiered a new website, in-gallery interactive or digital project in the last year that provides access to collections and learning for disabled people could be eligible for the prestigious national award.
For the winner it's a great chance to get UK-wide publicity for a new project. Last year the awards were given to a range of innovative projects including a DVD film tour of ancient castle staircases and vaults and an innovative website illustrating the life of a child prisoner in the 1800s.
"We're pleased with the continuing growth of the Jodi Awards," said Ross Parry of the Jodi Awards Trust. "2008 sees us officially welcoming the participation of museum agencies in Wales and Scotland; we have now achieved full Trust status; and we're working effectively with partners like the Museums Association to promote accessibility ever more widely."
Harry (left, in short-sleeved shirt) and Esther Mattes (far right, front) join 2007 Jodi Mattes award winners at the British Museum © Jon Pratty/24 Hour Museum
The Jodi Awards for 2008 are being presented on the evening of December 5 2008 at the British Museum. Earlier on the same day at the BM there'll be a seminar - jointly organised by the Jodi Awards Trust with the Museums Association - exploring issues around accessibility and the cultural web sector.
In association with the Rix Centre, the 2008 Awards will also include a new award for the best use of technology making collections and learning opportunities accessible to people with a learning disability.
More information about all these innovations and dates can be found on the Jodi Awards web pages – www.jodiawards.org.uk where you will also find more information about the award criteria and nomination forms.
Anyone who is unsure about about entering a project is also invited to get in touch with the organisers to discuss the awards and entry criteria. Contact Ross Parry rdp5@leicester.ac.uk for an informal chat.
