Queens Name Explorer

Reviewed by: Miaoling Xue

Review start: March 19, 2024

Review updated: April 3, 2024

Site Links:

• https://nameexplorer.urbanarchive.org/
• https://queensmemory.org/queens-name-explorer/

Archive Link: https://archive.ph/VjLuU

Data Sources

• NYC Open data
• Geographical information (location, city council district, community board, geolocation, neighborhood, zip code)
• Biographical details of 1000+ individuals (text, pictures, external links, etc.) whose names have been used to name public places in Queens
• Social media posts
• Continuing viewers’ input by “Add/Edit”

Processes

The project timeline is provided on the Queens Memory website (this Name Explorer project is a small project embedded to the larger Queens Memory Project)

• Team onboarding in April 2022
• The team worked with Urban Archive’s team to build the project page on the Urban Archive’s platform in July 2022
• Data specialists and archivists began to work on assembling datasets on personal names and biographical and demographic research in July 2022
• Rolling onboarding for interns and volunteers
• Public launch in October 2022
• Public programming in December 2022
• Final report and plan for the next stage in March 2023

Presentation

The project is presented through an interactive map and detailed entries for each commemorated individual. Viewers could click on the map points to read more about the person behind the names of public spaces in Queens. Or viewers could also contribute their knowledge to the map by adding or editing an entries. More details about this project is shown on the Queens Memory Project website hosted by Queens Public Library. Audience can also see their social media posts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Digital Tools Used

The specific tools are not listed directly. But it appears that Mapbox and OpenStreetMap, likely alongside web development frameworks, were used to create the interactive map. The team used the AirTable for their dataset management, working with their partners at Wikidata NYC and BetaNYC.

Languages

English

Review

The Queens Name Explorer project, a mapping component of the larger Queens Memory project, creates a vibrant digital storytelling around the names that shape public spaces in Queens, New York. By presenting a wide array of data sources, including geographic data in Queens and biographical details of over a thousand individuals, this project crafts a compelling interactive experience that bridges place names with the personal histories and contributions of those memorialized in the urban landscape.

This project not only utilizes an interactive map that invites viewers to engage with the stories behind the names of parks, streets, schools, and other public places in Queens but also further enhances user-driven exploration, offering an opportunity for the users to participate through the “Add/Edit” feature. This approach allows for a continuously evolving and community-centered database.

The team behind the project, including archivists, data specialists, and the developers at Urban Archive, demonstrates an impressive level of collaboration, data management and interactive design. Remarkably, their coordinated efforts brought this project to life within one year, highlighting their exceptional efficiency. Their final deliverables reflect a thoughtful consideration of accessibility and user experience, employing responsive design to ensure the project is seamlessly accessible across diverse devices, from mobile phones to desktop computers. Additionally, the team has further supported user engagement by providing comprehensive guided resources in the “FAQ” section, equipping users with valuable information to navigate the project efficiently and maximize their exploratory experience.

Furthermore, the Queens Name Explorer project extends its impact beyond digital infrastructure by actively fostering community participation in building the historical narrative of Queens. Through organizing public Edit-a-thon events, this project not only enriches its data entries, but also sets a model for digital projects as platforms for digital inclusion and community engagement. Such initiatives underscore the importance of ongoing activities and workshops in ensuring the project’s future development and sustainability, potentially serving as inspiration for similar endeavors in the realm of digital memories and local heritage.

In conclusion, with its innovative use of data, personal stories, and digital tools, the Queens Name Explorer project invites a broad audience to explore, contribute to, and appreciate the stories behind Queens' public spaces. This project exemplifies how digital innovation can foster a deeper connection to our shared spaces, narratives, and histories.

How does this project address information?
The Queens Name Explorer project addresses information by integrating geographic data, biographical data, and community contributions into an interactive map. This approach allows for a dynamic presentation of information, where data is not only collected but also experienced, fostering a deeper engagement in the community’s historical landscape.

How well does this project handle information?
The project shows an exceptional data management plan. The team builds a sophisticated approach from the very beginning that leverage multiple digital tools like Mapbox and AirTable, collaborates with the developer teams to design interactive experience for users, and plans spaces for users’ input. They keep facilitating a close connection between the project archiving team, developers’ team, and community insights.