community Archives

What is a Community Archive?

Although StoryCorps sends all released recordings to be archived at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress, we also make every effort to make these materials available locally in the communities where they are recorded. A community archive is a collection of StoryCorps interviews delivered to a community organization. Organizations that we partner with during our Mobile Tour can request a community archive of the interviews their participants recorded that they can then use to promote their organization's cause, connect with local history, and share with their communities.

What is included in a Community Archive?

By request, partners can receive a link with digital copies of the recordings, and an index data of each recording (typically an excel file with names and recording descriptions), as well as portraits if the participants chose to have one taken during their appointment. We will only share the recordings for which a full General Release was signed.

What can my organization do with these materials?

Community Archives are a fantastic resource to increase awareness about the issues your organization cares about, showcase your community’s voices, and document your community’s impact on local history. StoryCorps also hopes that our Community Archive partners will make the materials accessible for research, educational, and creative purposes to members of their community. Examples include:

Playing meaningful audio clips at community events

Posting excerpts on an organization’s website

Producing original segments, documentaries, and material

Including audio or transcripts in exhibitions about a local history

How can my organization get a Community Archive?

MobileTour partners can receive a Community Archive of all the recordings and photos they coordinated during our stop in your city free of charge! Please email the Associate Manager, Nalani Saito, at nsaito@gmail.com.

***PLEASE NOTE THAT DUE TO OUR ONGOING ARCHIVAL DIGITIZATION PROJECT, COMMUNITY ARCHIVE REQUESTS MIGHT TAKE UP TO 12 WEEKS TO PROCESS**