Oral History Resources

What is TheirStory?

TheirStory is an online tool specifically designed to help you record interviews in person or remotely, and create quality digital files. 

Subscription access is provided by WashU Libraries.   

Possible uses include class assignments, individual research projects, special events / programs, and more.

Features:

Record audio or video interviews using a "zoom like" interface

• schedule recording sessions in advance sending a link to interviewer and interviewee
• send a link with pre-generated questions to record a "testimonial" by one person
• generates high quality (uncompressed) files with separate audio tracks, suitable for long term preservation 
  • all files can be easily downloaded after created.

Auto-generate and easily edit written transcript and time coded index

• works with recordings made in TheirStory AND audio/video recordings from other sources uploaded to TheirStory
• possible in English and several other languages
• allows exporting index / transcript text in several formats for use outside the program

FERPA compliant tool

• please ask if you have questions regarding privacy concerns

User of the program will need to supply their own:

• Laptop or computer (with microphone and camera; integrated or external)
• TheriStory will work on a cell phones using Chrome or Firefox.

Who:

• Any WashU student, staff member, faculty interested in using TheirStory can request access. 
  • Note, the persons you interview do not need to be WashU affiliated.
• Space per semester is limited, and requests are honored on first come first serve basis.

Solid-State Audio Recording Kits

Special Collections has two portable kits that are designed to record in-person audio interviews.  These are loaned to members of the WashU community as scheduling permits. 

Possible uses include class assignments, individual research projects, special events / programs, and more.

Each kit includes:

• Maranz (or similar) Solid State Audio Recorder
• External microphone 
• Headphones
• cords and cables
• written instructions

User will need to supply their own:

• SD card
• AA batteries (if not using provided AC power cord)

Who:

• Any WashU student, staff member, faculty interested in recording an oral history can request to borrow a kit.  
  • valid WashU library borrowing privileges are required.
• Requests are honored on first come first serve basis.

How to borrow:

Email Special Collections to place your request: Spec@wumail.wustl.edu

• NOTE: first time users will need to schedule a 20 minute orientation session to learn how to use the equipment before it can be borrowed.
• Kits must be picked up and returned to the Department of Special Collections in Olin Library (open hours Mon-Fri, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm).
• Kits can be borrowed for up to 5 days. 

The Audiovisual Virtual Reality Augmented Reality (AVA) Studio is located on Level A of Olin Library.

Sample documents that you may find useful when conducting an oral history. These are provided as examples, and should be adapted or modified as needed to fit the requirements of your project.