Research Guides: Collecting and Managing Your Personal and Family Records: Oral History

Rare and Distinctive Collections

Classroom: Norlin N345

Reading Room: Norlin M350B

Image credit: Mike Livoda interview (ca. 1970s), Eric Margolis' Colorado Coal Project collection, University of Colorado Boulder Libraries' Archives

One way to actively capture your personal and family stories is to record oral histories with members of your family and community. Recording sound and video stories directly from your friends and loved ones may provide future generatons with vivid historical evidence and memories. See the resources below to get started recording your own oral histories.

Though recording high-quality audio and video is easier than ever, keep in mind that digital files do not last forever. Preserving digitized material also requires maintanence and attention. See the "Digital Files" tab above for tips on organizing and storing your newly digitized records and media for the long-term.

Suggested resources

Conducting Oral Histories with Family Members
This guide, from the UCLA libraries, includes detailed tips on oral history for families, including sample interview questions and equipment recommendations.
A Practical Guide to Oral Histories
The Southern Oral History Program created this how-to guide for creating your own oral history collection, including tips on interviewing, equipment, and release forms.
StoryCorps DIY
This set of multimedia resources is intended for groups and organizations interested in creating oral history archives for public engagement. Many tips can also be replicated for simple personal and family histories. StoryCorps is a national nonprofit dedicated to recording, preserving, and sharing diverse oral histories across the U.S. and its territories.