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Home > Journals > JEAL > No. 179 (2024)

 

Keywords

Digital Humanities, Geographic Information Systems, Asian American History, Immigration, Japanese American History, Chinese American History, Japanese Internment

Abstract

This article explores the integration of library instruction, digital humanities, and community engagement through the "Asia in Saint Louis" project at Washington University in St. Louis. Led by subject librarians Joan Wang and David Romney, in collaboration with digital humanities specialists and local community organizations, the project aimed to digitally reconstruct and showcase the histories of Asian Americans in St. Louis from the late 19th to the 20th century. Funded by the Missouri Humanities Council, the project employed ArcGIS StoryMap technology to create a series of interactive narratives. These StoryMaps, supported by archival research and community involvement, highlight key themes such as early immigration, urban development, internment experiences during World War II, and civil rights contributions.

The project exemplifies how subject librarians can leverage their roles as liaisons and educators to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and community partnerships. By engaging students in archival research and digital storytelling, the initiative not only enhances digital literacy and research skills but also broadens public access to historically significant narratives. The article details the project's development, methodology, community events, and the impact on student learning and community engagement. It concludes by discussing the broader implications for future digital humanities projects and the evolving role of academic libraries in supporting innovative research and community outreach initiatives.

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