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Access Tools

Our libraries have a wide range of local history materials including books, archives, maps and photographs to help you find out about life in your area in days gone by. So call in and discover your past with Knowsley libraries.

The main collection is held at Huyton library with smaller collections at our other branches.

Our archives are original documents produced by official bodies, societies and individuals that are no longer in current use. They may be 8 or 800 years old. Most archives are unique and have to be housed in secure conditions and handled with care.

Many archives have been copied onto microfiche (e.g. all the parish registers up to 1900) in order to save wear and tear on the originals.

Archives can be used for:

• Tracing your family history.
• Discovering the history of your village or town.
• Discovering the history of your house.
• School and college projects.
• Checking certain legal rights, eg rights of way.
• Obtaining official certified copies of many local (church) baptisms and marriages. (Please note that birth and death certificates are only obtainable from Register Offices)

If you wish to consult material on microfilm, microfiche or CD-ROM, for example census returns, newspapers and parish registers or want to consult our archives that are now in permanent storage at Kirkby library you are advised to book in advance.

To book simply call into your local library or contact us using the details below.

We’re always keen to acquire further material (photographs, publications, original records) relating to local people, organisations and events. So please think of us next time you clear out the attic!