Library launches 'In My Day' storytelling project

Cleveland Heights and University Heights residents alike are well aware of the diversity and rich history of this area. From October through May, Heights Libraries is inviting community members to celebrate this history by sharing memories of the Heights through “In My Day,” a unique storytelling project.

“With this program, we’ll be gathering stories from residents in the hopes of sharing and preserving the Heights’ unique history for future generations,” said Jessica Robinson, local history librarian at Heights Libraries. “There are so many important stories waiting to be told here, and we can’t wait to start weaving this tapestry together.”  

The project—facilitated by Robinson and made available to Heights Libraries through a grant from the Ohio Arts Council—debuted Sept. 8 with interview sessions at Denison Park and Heights Libraries’ Lee Road branch. Going forward, community members are encouraged to contact Robinson directly to set up an interview.

Interviews will be conducted using the SimplyTold storytelling app. A collaborative tool created by Cleveland-based tech start-up Digital Mosaic, SimplyTold allows users to record interviews on their phones and upload them to Digital Mosaic’s website to share. True to its name, the app is user-friendly, easy to install and free of charge.

Asked who is eligible to contribute to this project, Robinson responded, “We are truly hoping to capture the diversity of our wonderful community through this effort and to help share voices that might have previously gone unheard. As far as we’re concerned, the more stories we’re able to collect, the more colorful and complete a picture we’ll have of this wonderful area. We encourage Heights residents of all ages and backgrounds to contact us for an interview.” 

Those interested in scheduling an interview can contact Robinson at jrobinso@heightslibrary.org or at 216-932-3600, ext. 1248. Interviews last 20 minutes and generally take place from 2 to 4 p.m. on weekday afternoons. Other time slots can be arranged by special appointment. To learn more about "In My Day," go to www.heightslibrary.org or give Heights Libraries a call at 216-932-3600.