Collective description: The Houston Library has produced several hundred oral histories that range from interviews with ordinary citizens to conversations with former U.S. President George H.W. Bush. Most interviews appear to be conducted by community volunteers and library staff since around 2007, and most interviewees are elderly community members whose recollections center on changes in Houston particularly during the 1960s-1980s.
Regulatory significance: The most promising collection of oral histories related to regulation is the library’s project commissioned by former mayor Bill White. Those interviews center on major events and the political and business history of Houston. Users can browse interviews by subject, and relevant subjects include: community development, conservation of the environment, environment, legislators, oil and gas industry, and politics and government.
Relevant projects:
Mayor Bill White Collection
Digital access: Yes. Audio or video as well as transcripts of almost all interviews are available on-line through links in the finding aid.
Physical access: Researchers interested in the original audio may visit the Houston Library.
