West Otago oral histories now available at Tapanui Community Library

West Otago oral histories now available at Tapanui Community Library

For over a decade, a dedicated group of volunteers in the West Otago community has worked alongside the Southland Oral History Project to preserve the voices and memories of local residents. Now, thanks to a new partnership between Clutha District Libraries and the Southland Oral History Project, these important oral histories will be more accessible than ever before.

From August, the recordings—along with accompanying photographs—will be available for public listening at the Tapanui Community Library. This collaboration aims to bring these stories closer to home, making it easier for West Otago residents to hear and connect with the experiences of their neighbours, friends, and family—many of whom are no longer with us.

“Oral histories are made to be heard,” says Tiffany Jenks, Community Heritage Coordinator.

“We hope that by increasing access in West Otago, more people will listen, reflect, and gain a deeper understanding of their local heritage.”

To officially mark this occasion, a community morning tea will be held at the Tapanui Community Library on Friday, 22 August at 11:00am.

The event will bring together interviewers, interviewees’ families, and project supporters. Rosie Stather, Southland Oral History Project Coordinator, will speak about the Southland Oral History Project and its ongoing legacy. A slideshow featuring historic photographs and selected audio snippets will also be shared.

Members of the public are warmly invited to attend the event. This is a chance to celebrate the voices of West Otago and the volunteers who helped preserve them.

If you are interested in attending the event and morning tea on 22 August, please RSVP with the Tapanui Community Library by calling 03 204 8306 or emailing TapanuiCommunityLibrary@cluthadc.govt.nz

For those interested in discovering whose stories are on record or to simply enjoy a moment of local history, we encourage a visit to the Tapanui Community Library. Our staff will be happy to assist with access to the recordings and information about the project.