Library Engagement in National History Day Activities Crystal Johnson Chicago Metro History Education Center

Librarians of America: We are your biggest fans -- National History Day could not exist without YOU! “I found the experience to be very valuable. I learned how to manage my time, research at different libraries, and how to back up my argument.” student historian

What is NHD? National History Day is a yearlong educational program for students in grades Working individually or in small groups, students investigate a topic of their choice and turn their conclusions into exhibit displays, performances, documentaries, websites, and papers. Students can elect to submit their projects to a series of local, state, and national competitions.

Who participates? NHD programs exist in all 50 states and 6 affiliates around the world. About 500,000 students participate each year. Age divisions: -- Junior: grades Senior: grades 9-12 How do I contact the coordinator for my region?

NHD Works Compared to peers, almost twice as many NHD students correctly identified primary sources. NHD students see a wider range of sources—experts, museums, lecture notes, diaries, journals, films, first-person accounts, biographies. Non-NHD students list the basics—books, newspapers, textbooks, encyclopedias, magazines. NHD students have a better understanding of how to evaluate sources. NHD students look for credibility of sources—valid copyright, reputable publisher,.edu vs..com sources. They confirm authors’ credibility. Compared to peers, NHD students are better at interpreting information, drawing conclusions, summarizing passages—scoring 10 & 20 percentage points higher than peers. The more time they spend in NHD, the higher their scores.

What makes a strong NHD project? Historical Knowledge Historical Analysis Strong Sources Clear and well-communicated Presentation In short, a well-researched and persuasive historical argument that is supported effectively by historical evidence

What does a typical NHD year look like?

National competition State competitions Regional competitions Introduce; Select topics Preliminary research Research; Thesis/outline Complete project; School fair Regional competitions

Librarians are key! In both local and national surveys, teachers report that research and use of multiple sources are among the most significant factors in why they do National History Day with their students.

How can libraries help? Getting Started and Topic Selection If NHD is not well-established in your area, talk to teachers about the program – encourage their participation Post possible topics related to the upcoming theme on your website Post bibliographies to help students start researching popular topics Secure high-level research materials and databases (NHD students benefit from J-STOR, AHL, etc.) Prepare digital collections for popular topics Examples from the Chicago Public LibraryChicago Public Library and Chicago History Museum:Chicago History Museum

How can libraries help? Research Hold workshops introducing teachers and/or students to how to use your collections for National History Day Put popular sources on reserve during NHD “research season” Make research possible: Extended, non-school hours during “research season” Make research easier: NHD “research coaches” during peak season -- dedicated volunteers and/or staff during non-school hours for NHD students Off-site access to useful electronic resources, if possible Discounted photocopy charges or waived restrictions on scanning or photography

How can libraries help? Finally…we invite you to judge!