- Registration is required for this event.
- Registration will close on April 10, 2026 @ 1:30pm.
Program Description
Event Details
"Voices of Freedom" is an opportunity for Citizen Scientists (that's you!) to learn from transcription experts at the Smithsonian and contribute to real, ongoing research about post-Civil war American history.
The Freedmen's Bureau Transcription Project is a collaboration between the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Smithsonian Transcription Center; it's the largest crowdsourcing initiative ever sponsored by the Smithsonian, and now you can contribute, too! This event is also part of our Citizen Science Month 2026 and America 250 celebrations, and will count towards our cumulative goal of 2.50 Millions Acts of Science around the world.
This program will begin with a live-streamed presentation from Smithsonian experts explaining the research, goals, and historical importance of the Freedmen's Bureau records. Program participants will then be guided through the record review process, and have the chance to contribute their own transcriptions to the project. Your contributions will help increase our understanding of post-Emancipation family life during the Reconstruction period of our nation's history.
Registration is required if you will need access to a library computer during the program. You are also welcome to bring your own laptop computer to participate, in which case registration is strongly encouraged but not required.
Light refreshments will be provided.
Internet Use Disclaimer: Due to the nature of this program, participants (including minors) may have access to internet-enabled library devices and will be encouraged to visit program-relevant websites such as scistarter.org and transcription.si.edu. Please contact kelsey.johnson@kcpls.org ahead of time if you have questions about internet use during this program.
Disclaimer(s)
Registration Required
Registration for this program is required due to limited space and materials. If you cannot attend, please call the library to cancel your registration so the spot may open up to others. A registration will be cancelled and a program spot made available to other patrons if the registrant does not arrive within 10 minutes of the scheduled program time.
Accessibility
Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation to attend a program at any KCPL facility should contact the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. Phone: 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268 Email: facilities@kanawhalibrary.org
Main Library Patrons with strollers, wheelchairs, or other wheeled devices will find it easier to use the Jacobson Tower entrance on Quarrier Street or the Skybridge entrance via Summers Street Garage.
Food Allergies
We cannot guarantee that food served at this program has not come into contact with tree nuts, soy, or other allergens.
Photo & Video
We often photograph and videotape library events. These images are used for publicizing KCPL and its programs. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let the photographer or a staff member know.