What is TheirStory?

TheirStory is an online tool specifically designed to help you conduct interviews fully online, and has many features making it superior to other options such as zoom or teams.   

Features:

• Record audio or video interviews
  • download high quality files with separate audio tracks
• Auto-generate and easily edit a written transcript*.
  • possible in English and several other languages
  • allows exporting in several formats for use outside the program
• Easily create time coded index*
  • shortcut keys add headings quickly

*can be used for recordings made in TheirStory, or other recordings uploaded to the program.

Supplies needed:

Laptop or computer with microphone and camera. Will work on cell phones using chrome or firefox.

Who:

Any WashU student, staff member, faculty interested in working with the Department of Special Collections can request to use the program.  (Note, the persons you interview do not need to be WashU affiliated).   

How could this be used:

class assignments, individual scholarship, special projects / programs, and more.

Space per semester is limited, and requests are honored on first come first serve basis.

Audio Record Kits

Special Collections has two portable kits that are designed to record in-person oral history interviews.  These are used by Library staff for oral history projects, and are available to other members of the WashU community as scheduling permits. Kits must be picked up and returned to the  Department of Special Collections  (weekdays, 9-5).

Features:

• Maranz Solid State Audio Recorder
• External microphone
• Headphones
• needed cords and cables
• instructions

Supplies needed:

• SD card
• AA batteries (if not using plug-in power)

Who:

Any WashU student, staff member, faculty interested in working with the Department of Special Collections can request to borrow a kit.  Requests are honored on first come first serve basis, and typically are borrowed for 3-5 days.

NOTE: first time users will need to schedule a 20 minute review session to learn how to use the equipment before it can be borrowed.

How could this be used:

class assignments, individual scholarship, special projects / programs, and more.

For information about this space, located on Level A of Olin Library, please contact CFULIBAVStudio@gowustl.onmicrosoft.com.