Using Library Resources for Genealogy

Libraries: The Genealogist's Best Kept Secret

While online search tools get most of the attention, public and academic libraries offer some of the most valuable genealogy resources available, often at no cost. From subscription databases accessible with a library card to unique local history collections, libraries can dramatically expand your research capabilities.

What Libraries Offer

Free Access to Paid Databases

Many libraries subscribe to commercial genealogy and newspaper databases that would otherwise cost individuals significant subscription fees. Common library-accessible databases include:

Genealogy databases with billions of historical records
Newspaper archive services with digitized papers from around the world
Heritage and ethnic-specific databases focusing on particular communities
Military records databases with service and pension records

All you need is a library card, which is free in most jurisdictions. Some libraries even offer remote access, allowing you to search these databases from home.

Local History and Genealogy Collections

Many libraries maintain dedicated local history and genealogy sections that contain:

Published county and family histories
City and county directories
Maps and atlases showing historical boundaries
Genealogy how-to books and guides
Microfilmed records including census, church, and vital records
Vertical files of clippings and ephemera organized by topic or surname

Interlibrary Loan

If your local library does not have a resource you need, interlibrary loan (ILL) allows you to borrow materials from other libraries across the country. You can request:

Books and published genealogies
Microfilm reels of census records, newspapers, and church registers
Copies of specific articles or chapters

ILL is typically free or available for a small fee.

Types of Libraries for Genealogy

Public Libraries

Your local public library is the easiest starting point. Even small libraries offer database access, local newspapers, and reference assistance.

State Libraries and Archives

State libraries often house the largest collections of genealogical material within their state, including:

Statewide vital records indexes
State government records
Newspaper collections
Published state and county histories

University and Academic Libraries

University libraries may hold special collections relevant to genealogy:

Manuscript collections with family papers
Rare books and regional histories
Theses and dissertations on local history topics

Specialized Genealogy Libraries

Several libraries are dedicated entirely to genealogy research:

The Family History Library in Salt Lake City holds the world's largest genealogical collection
The Newberry Library in Chicago has a significant American genealogy collection
The New England Historic Genealogical Society library in Boston focuses on New England families
The Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana, has one of the largest public genealogy collections in the country

How to Make the Most of Library Visits

Prepare Before You Go

Identify what you are looking for before you arrive
Check the library's online catalog for relevant materials
Use ActualPeopleSearch to establish key details (names, dates, locations) about the individuals you are researching
Bring your research notes, including surnames, dates, and locations

Ask for Help

Reference librarians are trained to help you find information. Genealogy reference librarians, specifically, can:

Direct you to collections you did not know existed
Suggest search strategies for difficult problems
Help you navigate microfilm readers and databases
Recommend published resources relevant to your research

Document Everything

Record call numbers and locations of useful materials
Photograph or photocopy relevant pages
Note the library, collection, and shelf location for future visits
Add library sources to your research log

Remote Library Access

The pandemic accelerated the trend toward remote library services for genealogy. Many libraries now offer:

Home access to subscription databases using your library card
Digital collections viewable from anywhere
Virtual reference assistance via chat, email, or video call
Digitized local history materials on the library's website

Check your library's website to see what is available remotely. You may be surprised by how much you can access without leaving home.

Building a Relationship with Your Library

Attend genealogy workshops and programs offered by the library
Join the library's genealogy interest group if one exists
Volunteer to help with digitization or indexing projects
Donate copies of your family research to the local history collection

Libraries are community resources that grow stronger with use. The more genealogists engage with library services, the more libraries invest in genealogy resources. This creates a positive cycle that benefits all researchers.