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Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Special Collections are currently closed. Please contact the librarian, Nina, for research assistance: nwright@westerlylibrary.org (preferred) or 401-596-2877 ext. 310 There are many research questions coming in so we do ask for your patience. Thank you and please stay safe! Update, Oct. 2020: We are doing our best to accomodate researchers. AN APPOINTMENT IS NECESSARY. We will book a small study room for you and bring Special Collections items to you for your research.
You can enjoy our photos from home: Westerly Library's Photo Collection The yearbooks are also available from home: |
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The Special Collections at Westerly Library encompass Local History and Genealogy materials, as well as rare books, manuscripts, and artifacts. These materials reflect the rich history of Westerly and Pawcatuck, CT.
In addition to a wide variety of books relating to the history of Westerly and the surrounding area, the Local History collection also includes:
- Photographs (click here to view in our Flickr account)
- Margaret Wise Brown papers
- Historic documents
- Genealogies
- Old Postcards
- Maps
- Westerly & Stonington yearbooks (click here to view the Westerly ones online)
- City directories for Westerly & Pawcatuck beginning with 1875
- Vertical files containing clippings from local newspapers on various topics of local interest
Using the Collection
Special Collections materials do not circulate. Fragile items, or information protected by restrictions, may not be available for use. Materials must not be subjected to any risk of damage during their use, such as food, drink, ink, rough handling, etc.
Since many of the materials are not cataloged, it is important to contact the Library first to determine if the desired information is available. It may take some time for Library staff and Local History volunteers to locate certain items or information.
Queries by Mail or Email
The Reference staff can provide basic assistance with long distance research. In lieu of a research fee, a donation to Special Collections would be welcomed. We request a $10.00 donation for each search.
All research requests must be submitted in writing and include pertinent names, dates, and subjects to be researched. Please email the Special Collections librarian, Nina Wright, for additional information: nwright@westerlylibrary.org.
Donations
We welcome donations of materials that meet the criteria of the collection policy. Great treasures found in local attics will be well cared for and shared by future generations at the Westerly Library upon donation.