COLORADO VOICE PRESERVE: A library for oral history.
ORAL HISTORY is the process of recording and preserving memories that reflect first-hand
experiences. “Oral sources tell us not just what people did, but what they wanted to do, what they
believed they were doing, and what they now think they did.” (Historian and author Alessandro Portelli)
OPPORTUNITY
Oral-history projects can target individuals and social groups who have been marginalized;
first-hand stories can challenge a “status quo” understanding or a controlled message. In March
2012, a Colorado assessment showed that 96% of the state’s oral histories are not fully
accessible. An infrastructure dedicated to oral history would put 100% of its resources toward
making 100% of interviews discoverable, available, understandable, and usable.
PURPOSE
Colorado Voice Preserve (CVP) will work with libraries, museums, and community groups to
develop oral-history content: identifying projects, loaning equipment, and supplying interview
guidelines/protocols that ensure placement in the digital repository. Trained volunteers will
assist with interview processing: transcribing audio; creating abstracts, key-word listings, and
subject headings; prepping interviews for online search utilities; and posting interviews for Web
dissemination. The mission is to connect our public with stories that explain the human
consequence of events and decisions.
IMPACT
Oral history is not itself an end. The recorded interview is raw material for new expressions of
understanding: books, presentations, exhibits, documentaries. But that raw potential only will
be harnessed when voices are preserved and made accessible. CVP will bring oral histories into
useful life, so the captured voice fulfills its prophecy of informing public thought and action.
MULTIDISCIPLINARY COLLABORATION
Colorado Voice Preserve is supported by History Colorado, Colorado Humanities, and the
Colorado State Library.
 The functional purpose of History Colorado is to collect, preserve, and interpret the state’s
history for present and future generations. The larger ambition is to engage citizens in
Colorado’s tradition and legacy.
 The humanities provide tools for examining the human experience and asking fundamental
questions of purpose and meaning. Colorado Humanities brings these tools to communities
via literary, cultural, and historical programs.
 The Colorado State Library provides leadership and expertise in developing library-related
standards, activities, and services for school, public, academic, and special libraries.
Each of these institutions has promoted the long-term sustainability of the Colorado Voice
Preserve. During 2012, representatives participated in a planning process that shaped CVP’s
organizational profile. While CVP is best described as an independent library, contributions
from these agencies make the infrastructure collaborative, durable, and alchemical.
cynsnelson@voicepreserve.org