Collecting New Yorkers stories
Earlier this year I volunteered to assist with the Neighborhood Stories Project, an oral history initiative by the NYC Department of Records & Information Services (DORIS). I conduct interviews of people who have lived or currently live in New York City and invite them to share their stories. The interviews are recorded and preserved in the Municipal Archives & Library for the purpose of documenting local history and personal narratives.
I enjoy meeting with fellow New Yorkers and hearing everyone's unique and individual story. Every time I speak with someone, I learn something new about this city we call home. I believe this is an important project as it gives New Yorkers a voice and a chance for their story to become part of history. I'd like to encourage anyone willing to share their story to SIGN UP and schedule an interview. I've heard some amazing stories and look forward to conducting more interviews.
31 Chambers Street. NYC Municipal Archives.
Some FAQ’s:
What is the Dept. of Records & Information Services (DORIS)?
DORIS is responsible for preserving and providing access to NYC's government records as well as operating the Municipal Archives, Library and Record Center.
What is the Neighborhood Stories project?
Neighborhood Stories aims to gather and permanently preserve the stories of New York City community members by connecting local history with the records of City government maintained in the collections of the Municipal Archives and Library. The project endeavors to "put the community in the archive" by empowering local residents to provide their own rich historical narrative and to encourage them to reflect on how the past connects to their lives, their families and their future. Through Neighborhood Stories, DORIS aims to paint a more accurate portrait of our city, with its diverse communities, vibrant neighborhoods, and interesting people.
What is oral history and why is it important?
Oral history collects memories and personal commentaries of historical significance through recorded interviews. An oral history interview generally consists of a well-prepared interviewer questioning an interviewee and recording their exchange in audio or video format. Recordings of the interview are transcribed, summarized, or indexed and then placed in a library or archives. Here are some other NYC oral history projects.
What is a typical interview like?
Typically held virtually via Zoom, an interviewer asks questions about the participants life experiences including background, school, work, friends and family. The interviewer simply invites the participant to share their experiences as a New Yorker.
Where will my interview go once it has been recorded?
The interviews are preserved by DORIS within the Municipal Archives. Some interviews may be shared online if the participant gives their consent.
SIGN UP and schedule an interview TODAY!
Please reach out to Neighborhood Stories if you have any questions.
If you would like to volunteer, please visit here for more information and email the Volunteer Coordinator.
If there's anything I can help you with, please feel free to shoot me an email.
I look forward to speaking with you and hearing your stories!
KW