We have lived through a unique time of quarantine, social distancing, and economic woes, as a result of a global pandemic. To document the experiences of our community, the library has launched a community writing project for residents of Boyle County called the Danville-Boyle County COVID-19 History Project. We want to hear the story of your personal experience during the COVID-19 shut down.
Why is the Library doing this project?
Libraries are the keepers of information. In addition to the newest bestselling books and movies, you can also find family records and local history -- preserved, accessible, and free to all. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives -- closing schools, shuttering businesses, and causing record high unemployment. This is "history in the making," and it is important to record our experiences as we live through such an impactful time.
In the months and years to come, memories of specific events -- and even the emotions felt during this time -- may fade or become clouded. Recording experiences as they occur helps maintain the accuracy of the recollection. We would like to know the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the lives of those we serve, and encourage you to share your story while it's happening.
Responses can be sent to library@boylepublib.org or submitted by clicking the button below. You are welcome to submit your story anonymously if you prefer.
To help get you started, we have compiled a list of five writing prompts to choose from.
Writing Prompts:
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When did you first hear about the virus? Did you pay much attention to the news of the virus before it started to affect the United States? When did you start to realize that the virus might have an impact on your life?
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During this time, regarding the changes imposed because of the virus, which changes have had the biggest negative (or positive) impact on you? What impact have they had on your daily routine?
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If you’ve been quarantined due to possible interaction with someone who tested positive for COVID-19, or if you have tested positive, what has your experience been like? How are you coping, physically and mentally?
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Because of the physical distancing measures, have you reconnected with anyone? Who were they? (If you prefer to use pseudonyms, just put quotation marks around the fake names.) What led you to connect with them? What method of technology did you use to reconnect? What did you learn from reconnecting with them?
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What acts of kindness (or instances of people behaving badly) have you seen or experienced during the shutdown?
Rules and Guidelines:
- Choose any (or all) of the writing prompts to complete. Write at least one paragraph per prompt, but please keep your response to no longer than a double-sided sheet of paper (approximately 1,000 words) for each prompt.
- Responses can be sent to library@boylepublib.org or submitted by clicking the button on the top of this page and completing the form. Physical paper copies will also be accepted when the library re-opens.
- Photo entries and drawings that display the changes we have encountered will also be accepted.
- All items submitted will be collected and archived by library staff for future historic value. This archived information will be made available to the public so anyone can learn about our community's experience during this time.
- All ages are invited to participate.
Attribution:
This project was adapted from the Henderson County Public Library's efforts to chronicle their county's experience during the COVID-19 shutdown.
