Libraries and Archives

Opening times

See below for Search Room opening hours which are by appointment only.

Liverpool Archive Catalogue

Whether you are interested in the history of Liverpool or want to research your family history our archive catalogue lists all the reference material you need to help you with your search.

Before you search, using the button below, you may want to view a complete list of resources on offer.

Search the Liverpool archive catalogue

Liverpool in Print local studies catalogue

The Liverpool in Print local studies catalogue contains reading guides that identify the most important books about Liverpool history and provides useful guides for researching your family history.

Search the Liverpool in Print local studies catalogue

Reference material and help with research

Our local studies collection has books on all aspects of Liverpool’s history located in the 'Archive' area of Central Library. Please note that these books are for reference only.

Additional material is available in microfilm or microfiche format. Microfilm viewers are available. You can also use our computers to search 'Ancestry' and 'Find My Past' websites for free. All research facilities are open during normal Central opening hours.

We can help you with your research. Please contact us for more information and our latest fees.

The Search Room

The Search Room in Central Library is available to consult original archives and books by appointment only. We require at least one full working day’s notice, a list of items needed and reference numbers which can be obtained from the online catalogues.

Items are collected at the end of each session and there is a limit of the number of items you can view.

Bookings may be made for a morning session, an afternoon session, or all day. Please contact us to arrange a booking.

The Search Room opening times

Liverpool Libraries Together

Did you know that as a Liverpool Library card holder, you can access reference and archive collections at a number of university and college libraries in Liverpool?

Find out more about Liverpool Libraries Together.