Suffolk Speaks

Oral History Project

 
Suffolk Speaks is Suffolk Public Library's oral history project. We record and collect true stories from community members to make available to the public on our website. 
 
To see what people experienced at our launch event and to learn more about Suffolk Speaks, read the article featured in The Virginian-Pilot.

Would you like to record your oral history for the Suffolk Speaks project? Visit our Contact Us page to complete the information form and a staff person will contact you for a recording opportunity. 
 
Don't know what to say? Here are some sample questions to spark some inspiration:

  1. Describe a place in Suffolk that is important to you or where you created a significant memory.
  2. How has Suffolk changed over the time you have had a connection to the city?
  3. What’s your favorite outdoor/natural spot in Suffolk?
View more sample questions here.

Schedule a recording session.

Listen to some of the stories collected through the Suffolk Speaks project.
Suffolk Speaks Open Recording

Represent Suffolk on StoryCorps

StoryCorps is a platform that allows you to record interviews with another person or your own story from the comfort of your own home, from childhood memories to COVID-19 experiences. Help us add Suffolk stories to a growing archive!

  1. Download the StoryCorps App and create an account.
  2. Go to your user settings and select Apply a Community Code. Join the Suffolk Speaks community so your recordings can be added there.
  3. Create an interview by adding questions from designated lists or just go ahead and record!
  4. When editing your interview, choose to share it with Suffolk Speaks.
  5. Invite your friends and family members to participate!
Graphic of woman in wheelchair pointing at enlarged smartphone device with StoryCorps app displayed

StoryCorps Resources

View the StoryCorps user guide for how to effectively record interviews here.

Check out these 10 Conversation Tips before beginning your next interview or recording session.

Set up your own studio using these tips to improve sound quality.