Local studies and local history
Find out more about your community, research the history of your house or family.
Local studies libraries collect information on:
- towns and villages
- houses and buildings
- industries and organisations
- local individuals and families
- traditions, customs and folklore.
All Derbyshire libraries have a basic range of local history books you can borrow. Larger libraries have reference collections including local newspapers, census returns, maps and photographs for their local area. These reference collections are available, free of charge, for everybody to use.
There are also two major local studies collections at Chesterfield Library and County Hall, Matlock. Here specialist staff are always available to offer advice and assistance with your research.
Parish register microfilms
Please note that while the New Street premises of Derbyshire Record Office are undergoing refurbishment, microfilms of parish registers and wills are available at the Local Studies Library at County Hall.
It is advisable to book a microfilm reader in advance on 01629 536579.
Ancestry database
You can access AncestryLibrary.com at any Derbyshire Library including the County Hall Local Sudies library for free.
Online resources
Visit our websites to find out more about the history of Derbyshire and surrounding area.
