Local History & Genealogy

a stack of old black and white photographs on top of a letter written in cursive

Local History Collection & Genealogy Research

The library offers a collection of historic materials to support genealogists and local historians in their research. Along with these unique resources, visitors can access Ancestry Library Edition and FamilySearch Affiliate tools while at the library, making it even easier to explore family history and uncover connections to the past.

Ancestry in-Library Edition online resource logo

Ancestry in-Library Edition

Free in-library access to billions of genealogy records, including census, birth, marriage, military, immigration, and more—ideal for tracing family history worldwide.

FamilySearch online resource logo of a green and grey tree

FamilySearch Affiliate Library

We are a FamilySearch Affiliate Library. While using one of the library's computers, or connected to our wifi, you have greater and more convenient access to a wealth of genealogical resources.

Town Records 1776-1945

Town Records 1776-1945

These records document the town’s official history, including meeting minutes, property transactions, and local government decisions.

Sturbridge, Massachusetts Old Burial Ground Stone Survey graphic

Old Burial Ground Stone Survey

Bill Barnsley’s Old Burial Ground Stone Survey (2017–2018) mapped all remaining stones, transcribed inscriptions, and identified individuals and family connections, documenting over 600 burials in Sturbridge’s earliest cemetery.