What is the UNC Story Archive?
Contribute to the permanent archive of UNC-Chapel Hill history with the UNC Story Archive. This program provides student, past and present, an opportunity to record their Carolina experiences for the future.
The UNC Story Archive is a collection of short, conversational recordings that document the voices and experiences of historically under-represented narratives as part of a larger effort to preserve a full record of campus history in the Wilson Special Collections Library.
Stories are recorded in collaboration with student and alumni groups, at campus events, virtually, and at open-pop events where members of the UNC Community will be invited to share their stories. Recorded stories and transcripts will be preserved in the University Archives and shared online.
View stories that have already been submitted to the UNC Story Archive.
Interested in participating in the UNC Story Archive?
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to record?
All you need is access to a computer, smart phone, or other similar device with a microphone and the internet or WiFi. You will be able to record your story by simply clicking a link! A UNC Story Archive team member will coordinate a virtual recording session for a day and time that you are comfortable with.
What is a recording session like?
Before your recording session: A member of the UNC Story Archive team will go over the question prompts, review the permissions form, take a photo of you to accompany your recording, and answer any questions you may have.
During your recording session: Share your UNC story and experience in an open, free- form, and agenda-free space. Recording is quick and easy- it only requires you to click on a link!
After your recording session: A member of the UNC Story Archive team will confirm your contact information so that we can contact you about your recording and transcripts. Also, you will work with a member of the UNC Story Archive to select keywords and descriptions appropriate for your recording. We will also answer any other questions that you may have.
Am I being interviewed?
You will be provided with written questions to guide your recording, but your recording session is your time to share your story in an open and agenda-free environment. UNC Story Archive recordings are not an “interviewer-interviewee” recording session. But, if you prefer that someone read the question prompts during your recording session, we will be happy to do so. A member of the UNC Story Archive team will talk with you about your question prompt options and preferences before your recording session.
