The Florence Community Library has received a $44,541 grant to develop an interpretive audio tour of Florence, Arizona's many historical, architectural & cultural sites. The funds were granted by the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records Agency under the Library Services and Technology Act, which is administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Rosemary Bebris, director of the Florence Community Library, said the grant will be used to contract with an audio tour production company to create a walking audio tour of Florence, print an accompanying guidebook, & purchase MP3 hardware & software designed for interpretive tours.
Bebris said, "We're thrilled this project is getting off the ground. The Town of Florence will work with the Florence Main Street Program, the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce, the Pinal County Historical Society Museum, and others to select sites for the audio tour. These organizations may also contribute information from their own collections to the project."
Interviews with town personalities & home owners will be included in the production. When completed, the production will be uploaded to MP3 equipment & MP3 players will be catalogued & circulated from the Florence Community Library. The audio tour also will be available to download to personal MP3 players from the library's catalog.
From December 2008 to May 2009, informational receptions will be held in community organizations to introduce the interpretive audio tour to the public.
Bebris will serve as director of coordination and management for the project.
"An interpretive audio tour will provide a unique opportunity for residents & visitors to increase their appreciation of Florence," she said. "The town is experiencing rapid growth & many new residents are unaware that Florence is a cultural treasure."
Founded in 1866, Florence is the Pinal County Seat & one of the oldest towns in Arizona. With over 100 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the town is rich in history.
"Sadly, many of the stories & oral histories that are unique to the community are being lost as long-time residents pass away," Bebris said. "We are hoping that this project will keep Florence's history alive in the minds of its residents and visitors."