On June 15, 1999, the City Council granted permission for the Sunnyvale Public Library to apply for a federal Library Services and Technology Act grant administered by the California State Library. Having received approval of the grant application from the State Librarian, permission is requested to accept and expend $95,395.00 for Digital Storytelling to preserve local history.

As the Sunnyvale’s community continues to evolve, it is important to capture our vanishing history as well as focus on our future. Working with local residents and organizations, Sunnyvale Public Library will provide an opportunity to create living histories through personal storytelling. The digital stories will be preserved in the library collection and shared in the community through various means.

Goal 6.2A - Collection Development: Provide a balanced and current collection of library materials in a variety of formats to meet the informational, educational and recreational needs of the residents.

Goal 6.2D - New Technologies: Develop and maintain state-of-the-art delivery of library services to residents.

The proposed project complements many of the projects already underway in the community wherein residents are finding ways to highlight and preserve those things that are special about Sunnyvale. Technology exists which allows average citizens to record historically relevant information by merging photographs, video clips, printed matter, artwork and computer text, voice and music digitally to create personal histories. The project has the potential to expand beyond local history to embrace the diverse population of the community. Multi-media storytelling is another way to build understanding between neighbors at a time when we notice our differences more than our similarities. The State Library requires adherence to established standards for preservation of materials.

Funds received through the grant will be used to acquire equipment, software, temporary personnel and publicity materials. Staff time and materials already designated for local history preservation will be used in conjunction with the grant funds.

Publication of City Council agenda. Report to Council also available at City Web site and City library. Reviewed by the Board of Library Trustees at their regular meeting on October 4, 1999. The Board voted unanimously to recommend to City Council Alternative #1 which approves acceptance and expenditure of funds for LSTA grant.

Staff recommends Alternative #1.

Prepared & Reviewed by:

Victoria L. Johnson
Director of Libraries

Reviewed by:

Mary Bradley
Director of Finance

Approved by:

Robert S. LaSala
City Manager