Don't struggle! Get Help!
Confused? Still need help? Ask us!
Use our Ask A Librarian service to ask us a question:
- Visit in person at the Walk In-Reference desk on the first floor of Olin Library
- Send us an email
- Start a live chat with a (real human) librarian!
- Schedule a meeting with a librarian for one on one assistance
Local History Resources
Additional resources to consider when researching your local area:
- Historical Societies - Many state, county, cities have historical societies or preservation organizations. You can usually just google "[state/county/city] historical society" or you can try a historical society directory.
- Museums - Small, local museums will often reflect a specific part of your local area's history.
- State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPO) - Run by the National Parks Service, State Historic Preservation Offices usually are involved with maintaining and preserving historic buildings, including those on the National Register of Historic Places. If you live near a nationally recognized historic place, you may want to contact your local SHPO.
- Your local public library - Public libraries often have local history collections and/or librarians who can help you find resources.
- Additional Resources for Local History from the Library of Congress
Researching your Family History
In addition to local history resources, these may help when conducting family research:
- Oral History Interview Guide - Produced by the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage this guide features "a general guide to conducting an interview, as well as a sample list of questions that may be adapted to your own needs and circumstances."
- Genealogy Research Guide - Includes useful resources on how to conduct genealogy research.