Our Services

A man interviewing an older man during an oral history interview.

 

We offer in-person oral history interviews across Southern and Central California, and convenient remote options via video conferencing. Our comprehensive oral history service is designed to capture the unique stories and experiences of your loved ones. Our process is respectful, personalized, and focused on creating a meaningful and lasting record.*

Core Oral History Service:

Our primary service involves a professionally conducted oral history interview with your loved one. This interview is guided by archival best practices, thoughtful questions designed to elicit rich memories in historical context, personal reflections, and valuable life lessons. We strive to create a comfortable and engaging environment for the interviewee (life narrator).

Included:

  • A professionally recorded audio interview (in digital format, e.g., MP3)
  • Lightly edited audio for clarity (removal of long pauses, stutters, etc.)
  • A digital transcript of the interview (PDF or Word document)
  • A summary document highlighting key moments and themes from the interview.
  • Delivery of all materials via secure digital download and/or USB drive.
  • Publication in the official TimelessPreservation.com Oral History Collection
  • Publication as a print book – 2 copies, in paperback and/or hardcover formats, and available for purchase on Amazon.com (optional)

$495

Optional Add-on Services:

  1. Document and Image Digitization:Document Digitization: $0.15 per page (standard size, single-sided). Additional charges may apply for double-sided, fragile, or unprepared documents.Photo Digitization: $0.40 per photo (up to 4″ x 6″, standard resolution). Pricing varies for larger photos and higher resolutions.Small Bundle (Documents): Up to 50 pages for $10.

    Small Bundle (Photos): Up to 25 photos for $15.
    For larger quantities or special requirements, please inquire for a custom quote.

  2. Ancestry DNA Kit Administration: $35 (Cost of the Ancestry DNA testing kit is additional and must be purchased separately by the client).

Our Process

  1. Initial Consultation: We discuss your needs and the life story you wish to capture.
  2. Interview Scheduling: We work with you and your loved one to find a convenient time and location.
  3. The Interview: A trained interviewer conducts a thoughtful and engaging conversation.
  4. Post-Production: We professionally process the audio and create the transcript and summary made available to you for review and final approval.
  5. Delivery: You receive your complete oral history package.
  6. Publication: Your oral history is published in the Official TimelessPreservation.com Oral History Collection and, if you would like, as a print book available for purchase on Amazon.com.

*$195 mileage surcharge for Central California interview sites.