This section of the LibGuide offers a step-by-step overview for creating an oral history collection at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. While each project has its own unique needs, this guide outlines the process—from the initial filming or recording phase to the final stages of curation and digital dissemination—based on successful methods used in past oral history projects at UM-Dearborn.
The University of Michigan-Dearborn is home to several completed and ongoing oral history projects. Some of UM-Dearborn's oral history projects include:
While this guide focuses on the processes used by, and resources available to, the University of Michigan-Dearborn campus, it can serve as a starting point for any researcher looking to begin their oral history journey!
The Michigan Iranian American Oral History Project began recording the stories of Iranian Americans in Michigan in 2016. Each interview is indexed for convenient navigation to topics of interest. Transcripts and captions include translations and other contextual information to facilitate further inquiry and study.
The Michigan Middle East Travelers Oral History Project began recording the stories of people who have traveled to and around the Middle East for various reasons in 2021. Interviewees include both individuals with heritage connections to the region and those without. Each interview is indexed for convenient navigation to topics of interest. Transcripts and captions include additional contextual information to facilitate further inquiry and study.
Dr. Sid Bolkosky, Professor of History at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, conducted interviews with over 150 survivors of the Nazi Holocaust. These interviews include approximately 330 hours of audio and 60 hours of video. Selected interview transcripts and audio files are available online.
