StoryCorps, the oral history project that travels around the country cataloging Americans' true stories, is returning to Austin in January.
Launched in 2003, the nonprofit is dedicated to recording and preserving the legacies of ordinary people and then housing these stories at the Library of Congress for future generations. The results are sometimes sweet, sometimes heartbreaking — and almost always poignant.
StoryCorps' MobileBooth, a customized Airstream trailer outfitted with a recording studio, will be parked in front of the Bob Bullock Museum from January 5-31 to conduct interviews with everyday Austinites. The personal vignettes are told over 40-minute interviews between two people who know each other, as a trained StoryCorps guide facilitates the conversation.
Following the interviews, participants receive a copy of the conversation and another copy is archived in the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress. KUT, who is hosting StoryCorps during its visit, will air condensed versions of some of the stories on KUT 90.5, Austin's NPR station, and a few may even air nationally on NPR's "Morning Edition."
“StoryCorps tells the true American story — that we are a people defined by small acts of courage, kindness and heroism. Each interview reminds people that their lives matter and will not be forgotten,” said StoryCorps founder and MacArthur “Genius” Grant recipient Dave Isay.
Those interested in participating in StoryCorps can make reservations beginning on December 22 at 10 am by calling StoryCorps’ 24-hour reservation line at 1-800-850-4406 or visiting storycorps.org. Additional appointments will be made available on January 7.
StoryCorps returns to Austin January 5-31.
