Language
English
Publication Date
10-20-2026
Abstract
Overview: An MLA Caucus began an oral history project featuring its members. Using a collaborative, community-based approach, the project brings. This poster describes the development of this significant project. Methods: In Fall 2025 one of our caucus leaders shared that they had a robust oral history project at their library organization. This began the idea of forming an oral history project at the MLA caucus level. Within the caucus, an oral history task force was formed. Next, an online collaborative space was created where caucus members from across the country began drafting their responses to the prepared, open-ended questions. To date, the majority of current and ex-caucus leaders have completed their oral histories, and numerous caucus members have also contributed theirs. The stories and information collected have shown to be invaluable in highlighting the contributions of our caucus’ members to the profession. The strategies and practices in this project can also be used as a model for other MLA caucuses or professional groups to document and preserve their collective histories. Conclusion: By capturing the oral histories of caucus members, we are creating a "time capsule" of our unique contributions and cultural perspectives. This initiative will serve a dual purpose: leaving a legacy for future librarians to trace their roots and providing a replicable framework for other groups to map their histories.
Keywords
medical librarian, health sciences librarian, Hispanic librarian, Latinx librarian, oral history
Published Open-Access
yes
Recommended Citation
Justice, Adele V.; Kennedy, Brandon; Diaz, Jessica; et al., "Cultura, Collaborations, and Chisme: An MLA Caucus’ Oral History Project" (2026). Library Staff Publications. 115.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/library_docs/115