Archives and family history
Dating from the 13th century, our collections give you the opportunity to discover the rich and fascinating history of Liverpool. Experienced staff will help you explore original documents, photographs, maps and newspapers which record the lives of Liverpudlians across the centuries.
To consult original archives, rare books and other material you must make an appointment to use the search room. However, you can access our popular family history resources on microfilm, Ancestry or Find My Past without an appointment during library opening hours.
We also run a Family History Helpdesk every Tuesday 1.30pm to 4pm. There's no appointment necessary and it's a great place to start your family history search.
Our research service can also carry out information searches for a fee.
Where to find us
3rd Floor Central LibraryWilliam Brown Street
L3 8EW
Follow us on Twitter @Liverpoollib
Opening hours
| Monday | 09:00 | 20:00 | ||
| Tuesday | 09:00 | 20:00 | ||
| Wednesday | 09:00 | 20:00 | ||
| Thursday | 09:00 | 20:00 | ||
| Friday | 09:00 | 20:00 | ||
| Saturday | 09:00 | 17:00 | ||
| Sunday | 10:00 | 17:00 |
Information
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The search room
The search room is available by appointment only to view original archives, rare books, maps, photographs and more.
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Our collections
We preserve and provide access to a large and diverse collection of records that evidence life in Liverpool, both past and present.
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Research service
If you can't get to us in person, our dedicated research officer can carry out short or in-depth information searches. There is a charge for this service.
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Family history
Where to start if you're thinking of tracing your family history, and how we can help.
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Local studies
Our local studies collection includes microfilmed newspapers and church records, reference books and more.
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Archive Catalogue
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 with your search.