Local Libraries With Genealogy Research Databases
The following libraries, located in southern California, provide access to key genealogy research databases. Most public libraries restrict database access to their library cardholders (usually available for free), whether for remote access to databases or for use in-house on their public computers. Be sure to check each library's website for information on obtaining a library card. It is definitely worth obtaining a library card to use these valuable resources!
- Orange County Public LibraryProvides free remote access to cardholders for: Fold3 Library Edition and HeritageQuest Online. Provides in-house-only access to: Ancestry Library Edition.
- Los Angeles Public LibraryProvides free remote access to: HeritageQuest Online, the Historical Los Angeles Times Archives, the Historical New York Times Archives, the Historical San Francisco Chronicle Archives, and California Sanborn Maps. Provides in-house-only access to: Ancestry Library Edition, Findmypast (Central Library only), and HistoryGeo. Note: LA County residents may apply remotely for an LAPL e-card.
- Carlsbad City LibraryProvides free remote access to library cardholders for: America's GenealogyBank, Archives Unbound, Fold3, HeritageQuest, and Newspapers.com. Provides free in-house-only access to: Ancestry Library Edition and American Ancestors.
- Yorba Linda Public LibraryProvides free remote access to: Fold3 Library Edition. Provides in-house-only access to: Ancestry Library Edition and American Ancestors.
- Huntington Beach Public LibraryProvides free remote access to library cardholders for: HeritageQuest Online.
- Long Beach Public LibraryProvides in-house-only access to: Ancestry Library Edition.
- Mission Viejo Library Online ResourcesProvides in-house-only access to: Ancestry Library Edition.
- Newport Beach Public LibraryProvides in-house-only access to: Ancestry Library Edition.
- Orange Public LibraryProvides in-house-only access to: Ancestry Library Edition.
- Placentia Library DistrictProvides free remote access to library cardholders for: HeritageQuest Online.
- Riverside County Library SystemProvides in-house-only access to: Ancestry Library Edition.
Orange County Digital Historical Photo Collections
Do you have ancestral roots in Orange County? If so, these digitzed photo collections might aid your research.
- Digital Anaheim (Anaheim Public Library)A digital archive of nearly 2,000 historic photographs dating back to 1860. These unique local history resources have been organized for easy browsing by Anaheim residents, scholars, and history buffs throughout California and the world.
- Mission Viejo Local History Digital CollectionTake a visual tour of the creation of Mission Viejo from its earliest days to the incorporation of the City of Mission Viejo! Over 400 images from community activities, Mission Viejo Company brochures, and more have been digitized from the original archival items.
- Orange County Archives' Flickr ChannelThe Orange County Archives has digitized and provides access to over 1,000 historical Orange County images.
- Orange Public Library & History Center Digital CollectionFocuses on the history of the City of Orange. It consists primarily of photographs that include a variety of time periods and subjects. Photographs date to as early as the 1850s and feature the city's founding citizens, businesses, organizations, and landmarks.