Main Page Planning the interview Preparing the interview Conducting the interview Preserving the interview

Set an Objective

First, set an objective. Setting an objective is as easy as answering two simple questions: WHY do you want to do an oral history interview and WHAT do you intend to do with the information you gather? Write down your own objective by filling in the following information:

I'm going to gather information about ________.

The information I gather will be used for ________.

Make a List

Next, make a list of people who might have the oral history information you're looking for. Consider the age, proximity, availability, and openness of each person, then select a person to interview.

TIP: If you're looking for family history information, try to interview your oldest living relative first.

To contact the person you would like to interview, send a letter introducing yourself and your objective. Follow up with a phone call, then send another letter to confirm the details of your conversation.

TIP: Ask the person to begin gathering old photos and documents that will help them remember the time period you will be discussing.

On to Step 2- Preparing the Interview »