Library requests $9000 grant for agricultural oral history project with University of Washington

Iredell County's Board of Commissioners has taken a significant step towards enhancing local history preservation by approving a request from the library to apply for a $9,000 grant for a community archive project. This initiative, in collaboration with the University of Washington Information School, aims to document agricultural oral histories, particularly focusing on heirloom seeds in the northern part of the county.

During the meeting, Miss Moore outlined the project's objectives, which include connecting local oral histories with the county's seed library. The library plans to collaborate with the extension office to gather these stories, enriching the community's historical narrative. The grant funds will primarily be allocated for recording equipment, enabling staff to effectively collect oral histories from community members.

Additionally, a portion of the grant will cover the expenses for a staff member to attend a three-day conference in Seattle. This training will provide essential guidance on launching and sustaining the project, ensuring its long-term success.

The board expressed unanimous consent for the grant application, highlighting the community's commitment to preserving its agricultural heritage. In related news, the library reported positive progress on its $2.50 initiative, despite not receiving one of the grants applied for, as they successfully secured a county committee grant.

This project not only aims to document valuable local histories but also fosters community engagement and collaboration, reinforcing Iredell County's dedication to preserving its unique cultural heritage.