Share Your COVID-19 Story to Build the Library’s Collection
We are living in a historic moment. The COVID-19 pandemic is perhaps one of those events that change or mark a generation. Recognizing the importance and unique opportunity for us to document experiences and collective memories while we are living through uncertain times together, the Arlington Heights Memorial Library invites local community members to share their stories, artifacts and any form of artistic or creative expression about living during the pandemic. The goal of the Arlington Heights COVID-19 Story Project is to create a library collection that will enable our community and future generations to learn about the resilience of Arlington Heights. The library aims to create a permanent historic document by exhibiting or publishing the work digitally and/or physically in the future.
What is the library looking for?
We are looking for personal stories that reflect how your world is changing. We encourage our community members to keep a "journal" to record your everyday experiences, feelings, reflections, and hopes, no matter how big or small. You may transcribe news articles, type, or hand-write your stories, create drawings or doodles, take photographs, make short videos, compose songs, and so forth. We welcome raw and original materials. To contribute to the Arlington Heights COVID-19 Story Project, complete an online entry form and agree to the release waiver by checking the checkbox.
Can I contribute more than one submission?
Yes. Anyone interested in sharing work can submit multiple pieces.
Who can contribute to the Arlington Heights COVID-19 Story Project? Do I need to be an Arlington Heights resident to participate?
All ages are welcome. The project is open to current Arlington Heights residents and members of our vibrant businesses community. No library card is required to submit items.
How can I share my story?
All contributions must be available in digital format. If you create any work in paper or physical form, please document it in one of the following formats:
JPEG, PNG, PDF, MP4, etc. (maximum file size: 250mb)
External links to YouTube, Vimeo, or other open, web-based publishing platforms are also accepted.
Contribute My COVID-19 Story Now
Email c19stories@ahml.info if you require help using this form. Once the library building is re-opened, we can help you convert your analog documents to digital files best fit for the project.
Learn more about how you can Share Your COVID-19 Story to Build the Library’s Collection in one of two upcoming information sessions: Wednesday, April 15 and Friday, May 1.
Is there any deadline?
With the unknown future of the pandemic, the library will accept contributions on an ongoing basis. Continue to follow us at ahml.info for further updates related to COVID-19.
Where will my contribution go after I submit it to the library?
After you complete an online contribution form, it will be directed to library staff for review. The library reserves all rights to publish the work in appropriate platforms in the future. By sharing your contact information, you will be notified with updates about the project. Library staff may also get in touch to learn more about what you’ve shared.
Your contributions may be included in a digital or physical exhibit curated by Arlington Heights Memorial Library and may eventually be included in larger statewide or national digital archives, such as the Illinois Digital Archive or the Digital Public Library of America.
We look forward to your contributions. Questions? Please email c19stories@ahml.info