The newspaper collection serves both as an archive for local history and as a rich research source. Newspapers from major U.S. cities are kept for four weeks. Older issues of local papers plus selected major papers are available on microfilm and CD-Rom. In addition the department maintains a microfilm collection of archival newspapers. The History and Genealogy Department provides in-person reference service to assist patrons in locating and using materials.
Ready reference is offered by phone.
The staff does limited research in response to mail requests. Patrons engaged in genealogical or other extensive research are encouraged to visit the department to learn its resources. The department offers indexes to the U.S. Census, genealogical materials, and travel information. The department creates publications to support use of its collection. Currently these include brochures on genealogical research, the U.S. Census and its use in research, a list of city directories from 1813 to 1935, and a description of African-American family resources.