Скачать или смотреть Edwin Tyson Interview, Curator of the Searls Library (2009)

This video interview was recorded in the last days of Edwin Tyson, curator of the Searls Library and revered Nevada County historian and resident of Nevada City for many years. He became synonymous with the Searls Library to the extent that tourists sometimes assumed he was "old Mr. Searls." Ed passed away, at age 92 in February 2010, shortly after recording this oral history. He was much respected and beloved.

In this interview, Ed shares his journey of becoming a central figure at the Searls Library. He began volunteering one afternoon a week and gradually took on more responsibilities, eventually being left in charge during a two-week leave. Tyson's dedication and the library's struggle for independence led to a more permanent role, where he even worked six days a week during a challenging period. He opposed the library being taken over by the county library system, emphasizing the importance of autonomy and the historical significance of the Searls family. Tyson's personal history, including his Midwestern upbringing, academic pursuits in psychology and English, and a serendipitous move to California, all contributed to his deep-rooted connection to the Searls Library. His story reflects his passion for libraries and his commitment to preserving the legacy of the Searls Library.

Wally Hagaman conducted the interview at the Searls Library.