Posted by Meredith on Tuesday, Oct 7, 2014
Mediacom is in the process of converting local public access channels from analog to digital format. In addition to this, the Iowa City Public Library’s local access channel will move from Channel 10 to Channel 20. These changes will take place on Oct. 29.
Iowa City has six local access channels that will convert to digital-only format at the end of the month. However, The Library Channel is the only channel that also will change channel number.
The Library Channel originates from the Iowa City Public Library. Its primary mission is to extend Library programs for children and adults to a wider audience and to inform the community about Library services.
The Library Channel's schedule focuses on Storytimes, Children's Specials, and a variety of adult programs produced at the Iowa City Public Library. Other programming includes live coverage of meetings and events of local non-profit organizations taking place in the Library's meeting rooms, or local programming provided by the City's Cable Television Services office which may be of interest to the local community.
The switch from Channel 10 to Channel 20 only affects Mediacom subscribers. A digital converter is needed to view The Library Channel on Channel 20. Most newer televisions have a digital converter. If needed, customers may pick up a digital converter (DTA) device from Mediacom at 546 Southgate Avenue in Iowa City for use for one year at no charge. After that, subscribers will be charged $0.99 per month per unit. They may also call Mediacom at 1-844-274-6753 to arrange for a converter to be sent to their home. Customers may install the Mediacom converter box themselves or contact the company to schedule an installation at a cost of $49.99. Digital-to-analog converters are also available for purchase from local or online retailers.
Mediacom office hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.
The Library Channel is not available to satellite customers; however, programs may be streamed online at video.icpl.org.
For more information, call the Library at (319) 356-5200 or email bond-drager@icpl.org.