The Bridges Library System is excited to announce that it has been awarded a grant from Bader Philanthropies, Inc. to bring StoryCorps training to our Library Memory Project libraries this September. StoryCorps’ mission is to preserve and share humanity’s stories in order to build connections between people and create a more just and compassionate world. To learn more about StoryCorps, we encourage you to read up on it here: https://storycorps.org/ 

Several years ago, StoryCorps launched their Memory Loss Initiative and have primarily used this particular initiative with hospice patients. While StoryCorps has worked with libraries before, it has never worked with libraries in conjunction with an intended audience of persons living with memory loss. We would be the first! 

So what does this mean for us? The Library Memory Project is a group of public libraries providing memory cafes for those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia along with educational opportunities on brain health and wellness. By partnering with StoryCorps, we will be able to record, preserve, and share the stories of those we serve through the Library Memory Project.

We are seeking to fill a limited number of StoryCorps Facilitators to assist with this project. You can read more of what is involved in being a StoryCorps Facilitator in the position description. This is a 1.5 year+ commitment and we are seeking library staff who are passionate about the Library Memory Project and the individuals we serve, interested in preserving stories, and able to coordinate the logistics of recordings. 

If you are interested in becoming a trained StoryCorps Facilitator and want to join the StoryCorps/Library Memory Project Team, please complete this online form (available for viewing in PDF ) by July 16. This opportunity is available to library staff members that are part of the Library Memory Project. All applicants will be notified of their status no later than July 21. 

Please note that we wish we could invite everyone to become a trained StoryCorps Facilitator, but are strictly limited to a set number by StoryCorps. Be assured that we will have opportunities for involvement in the StoryCorps project in the future. 

I am co-leading this project with Becca Werginz from the Pauline Haass Public Library in Sussex. Please feel free to reach out to either of us with questions. Becca’s email is bwerginz@phpl.lib.wi.us and my email is ameyers@bridgeslibrarysystem.org

Sincerely, 

Angela Meyers
Bridges Library System 

Related links:
StoryCorps Facilitator Position Description
Facilitator Application Online Form due 7/16 (PDF for viewing)