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Local History Resources

Discover resources to explore the history of your community, trace your family roots, and access historic newspapers and archival collections. These materials are available through OWWL libraries, state, and national repositories.

🧬Genealogy Resources

Ancestry Library Edition

Available free at OWWL libraries. Remote access is no longer available as of Dec 31, 2021.

  1. Visit your local OWWL library to access.
  2. Use a library computer or your own device.
  3. Visit Ancestry Library Edition
  4. Optional: Save your work with a flash drive.

Family Search

  • Free genealogy research service from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. No religious content or proselytizing involved.
  • Accessible anywhere with internet: Family Search.
  • Similar records to Ancestry Library Edition.

📰Historic Newspapers

  • OWWL libraries are working to digitize local newspapers. Collections are available across library, state, and national repositories.
  • Use our OWWL Historical Newspapers Index to see publications with digital content and catalog links.

Library Repositories

State Repositories

National Repositories

📦 Archival Collections

Library Repositories

State Repositories

💡Quick Tips & Resources

  • Bring a flash drive when using library computers.
  • Start with names, locations, and dates for genealogy research.
  • Explore historic newspapers to uncover local events, obituaries, and advertisements.
  • Ask library staff for guidance—they’re local history experts!