Discover Kentucky's History
The Library's Kentucky History & Genealogy Collection preserves and provides access to historical and genealogical resources for researchers in Louisville, throughout Kentucky, and beyond. Our mission is to ensure that these valuable materials remain accessible to future generations.
Need Help With Your Research?
Our librarians can assist you remotely with historical and genealogical research questions. You can also explore our reference resources from home.
Genealogy & Research Databases
Ancestry Library Edition and LFPL's Kentucky History Research database are available at any LFPL location .
Additional local history and genealogy databases can be accessed using your library card.
Digital Collections
Explore Kentucky's history through digitized archival materials, historic newspapers, maps, and firsthand accounts.
Kentucky Digital Library
Explore digital archival collections from institutions across Kentucky, supporting research, scholarship, and lifelong learning.
1937 Flood Collection
Discover eyewitness accounts, personal experiences, and institutional reports documenting the devastating January 1937 Ohio River Valley flood.
Louisville Newspaper Obituary Index (1918–1987)
Search an index of obituaries published in Louisville newspapers, including the Louisville Courier-Journal.
Sanborn Maps
Examine detailed historic fire insurance maps illustrating the development of American cities, neighborhoods, buildings, and infrastructure.