The Local History Collection includes both ready reference which is accessible during regular library hours as well as special collections available by appointment only.
For questions or appointments to review special collections please contact:
Margie Walker, Local History Librarian
mwalker@amesburylibrary.org
978-388-8148
Meghan Petersen, Archivist
mpetersen@amesburylibrary.org
The collection focuses on materials about the history of Amesbury, Massachusetts, and the surrounding geographical area including Salisbury and the Merrimack Valley that establish Amesbury within its historical context. Emphasis is also given to the acquisition of those materials which will contribute to a knowledge of the region’s social, civic, religious, economic and cultural life, past and present.
The collection emphasizes material of significant local and historical value and includes materials by and about the people of Amesbury, Amesbury High School Yearbooks, cemetery maps, personal papers, manuscripts, deeds, scrapbooks, books, ephemera, and genealogical information.
The Local History collection includes books, diaries, pamphlets, newsletters, bulletins, periodicals, reports, letters, speeches, newspapers, manuscripts, documents, maps, atlases, clippings, postcards, photographs, photographic negatives, slides, films, videotapes, electronic materials, paintings, posters, stereo views, genealogical records, memorabilia and ephemera such as commemorative programs and advertisements.
Gifts & Donations
The library welcomes donations to its Local History Collection. All donated materials must be free of dirt, mold, moisture, and pests, and should be in good condition. Donors must sign a “Deed of Gift” transferring ownership, and copyright, if applicable, to the Amesbury Public Library. The donor and the library each retain a copy of the deed of gift.
The library reserves the right to decline gift offers. Gifts which are out of scope or which require more resources to preserve and make available than the library can provide will not be accepted. Please do not drop off donations without a prior appointment.
To discuss your donation please contact Margie Walker at 978-388-8148 ext. 610 or email at mwalker@amesburylibrary.org or Meghan Petersen at mpetersen@amesburylibrary.org.
Programs
The Amesbury Library has a Genealogy Club and also Local History Programs. You can find more information here.
Genealogy Resources
We have provided some resources to help you in your search for local history and genealogy. You can find more information here.
For information about the city of Amesbury go to www.amesburyma.gov