In 1993, the OHA established an award to recognize a published book that uses oral history to make a significant contribution to contemporary scholarship; and/or significantly advances understanding of important theoretical issues in oral history; and/or is an outstanding example of sound oral history methodology. It is the expectation that oral history be a central part of the nominated publication.
The award, which is honorific, is presented annually and will be awarded at the OHA’s 2024 annual meeting. Winners receive an award plaque, one-year memberships in the OHA, and complimentary registration to the annual meeting.
The OHA welcomes entries that represent the work of academic scholars, public historians, independent professionals, and community-based groups and individuals. Entries are welcome from around the world but must be in English. Submissions for the 2024 Book Award are now closed.
Submissions are evaluated according to the following criteria:
- Contribution to socio/historical inquiry
- Contribution to the practice of oral history
- Adherence to sound methodology in the conduct of interviews, including the deposit of completed interviews in a public repository for subsequent use and reinterpretation, where appropriate
- Skillfulness and originality of presentation
The award may be granted to a publication that, at least in part, derives its significance from germinal work done previously by the author(s). Works published between January 1 to December 31 of the previous year are eligible for consideration.
Committee chair: Leyla Vural, leyla@lvcomm.com, 2022-2025
Committee:
Jeff Corrigan, 2023-2024
Mary Rizzo, 2023-2026
Submissions for the 2024 Book Award are now closed.
