NYS Personal History Initiative

The NYS Library’s Personal History Initiative collects and preserves stories from New Yorkers and New York’s communities. We accept submissions directly through our New York Experience prompts and we support communities working to document their history.

Public broadcasting has a long history in the United States - existing to inform, entertain, and enlighten you and your family. Educational content fosters citizenship and cultural understanding, helps those most in need gain new skills and English language literacy, and provides a safe, trusted media space for children aiding in school readiness skills.

New York State is home to a vibrant arts scene and is a leader in arts education. Teachers from all New York communities are invited to contribute media and stories to exhibit how students are shaping our cultural landscape. 

The Personal History Initiative tells New Yorkers’ stories. The everyday experiences of all New Yorkers make up the building blocks of our state's history. Explore firsthand accounts of life in New York State and share your own story.

What becomes possible when New Yorkers come together around a shared vision or interest? Explore collaborations and contributions from our New York communities.  

How have every day New Yorkers embodied the principles of revolution, change, and community? As part of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, communities are recognizing and celebrating New York’s role in the Revolution. These celebrations also recognize the roles New Yorkers played in the revolutionary civil rights movements, including the women’s rights and abolitionist movements, the underground railroad, and the LGBTQ+ movements.