The library’s Local History and Genealogy collection contains nearly 3,000 reference items handy in tracing one’s family lineage. Many books focusing on Butler County, Missouri-- its history and its people-- are available in this collection.
Link to Butler County Vital Information on the Net:
Genealogy Computers at the Library:
Time Limit:
Two hours each day
Print Costs:
Black/White: 25 cents per page
Color: $2.00 per page
Genealogy Online Databases:
Ancestry Library Edition (available in library only)
HeritageQuest Online (available from home with your library card)
Genealogy CD Collection (available in library only)
Microfilm Room:
The microfilm room has the latest in microfilm machines, which allow remote access from your home, school or office. The information is then easily sent to your printer or email account. To arrange an appointment to use the library's microfilm machine remotely, contact the library at 573.686.8639 or by email.
The local newspaper dating back to 1877 is maintained on microfilm and available to view on the library's microfilm machines. The library also regularly borrows microfilm from other libraries for a small fee.
The microfilm room was established in May 2008 as a part of the library renovation and expansion, which was funded by the Kay Porter $1 million bequest. Federal grants provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services added new equipment in June 2007 and 2008.
"THIS DAY IN HISTORY" Database:
Add YOUR history to the collection: The library is now gathering pictures and type written documentation to add to a new database, THIS DAY IN HISTORY. Poplar Bluff has a rich history and much of it is still stored in family scrapbooks, Bibles, and photo albums. Contact the library to add genealogy or local history files to this database. The information must be digitized and provided to the library on CD or flash drive. Format and copyright restrictions apply. New files will follow the materials collection development guidelines of the library.
Obituary Request:
The library maintains the local Poplar Bluff newspaper on microfilm dating back to as early as 1877. This collection is not conclusive, particularly in the earliest editions.
The library does provide a research and copy service of articles/obituaries from the local newspaper for a fee of $5.00 per incident. However, an index for this material does not currently exist. For this reason, library staff are limited to searching only those requests, which contain the exact name of the individual involved and the exact date of the incident. To request a copy of a local newspaper article/obituary, please send a written request containing the above information, the $5.00 fee, and a SASE to:
POPLAR BLUFF PUBLIC LIBRARY
318 NORTH MAIN STREET
POPLAR BLUFF MO 63901
The results of the search will then be returned in the envelope provided. If you have any additional questions on newspaper services, please contact the library at 573-686-8639 or by email.
