Catching Stories — 2009 ·

A Practical Guide to Oral History

By Donna M. DeBlasio, Charles F. Ganzert, David H. Mould, Stephen H. Paschen, and Howard L. Sacks

“This book will prove to be a valuable resource for community historians seeking an introduction to the field.”

Douglas A. Boyd, Director — Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, University of Kentucky Libraries

In neighborhoods, schools, community centers, and workplaces, people are using oral history to capture and collect the kinds of stories that the history books and the media tend to overlook: stories of personal struggle and hope, of war and peace, of family and friends, of beliefs, traditions, and values—the stories of our lives.

Catching Stories: A Practical Guide to Oral History is a clear and comprehensive introduction for those with little or no experience in planning or undertaking oral history projects. Opening with the key question, “Why do oral history?” the guide outlines the stages of a project from idea to final product—planning and research, the interviewing process, basic technical principles, and audio and video recording techniques. The guide covers interview transcribing, ethical and legal issues, archiving, funding sources, and sharing oral history with audiences.

Intended for teachers, students, librarians, local historians, and volunteers as well as individuals, Catching Stories is the place to start for anyone who wants to document the memories and collect the stories of community or family.

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Donna M. DeBlasio is an associate professor of history and director of the Center for Applied History at Youngstown State University.

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Charles F. Ganzert is a professor in the Communication and Performance Studies Department at Northern Michigan University.

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David H. Mould is the associate dean for research and graduate studies in the Scripps College of Communication at Ohio University.

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Stephen H. Paschen is the university archivist as well as assistant professor in libraries and media services at Kent State University.

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Howard L. Sacks is a professor of sociology and director of the Rural Life Center at Kenyon College.