Established in 1956, The Champaign County Historical Archives is a department of The Urbana Free Library that specializes in genealogy and local history. In 1987 it was designated the official repository for non-current Champaign County records. Although it focuses on Champaign County, the Archives holds extensive collections of works dealing with the rest of Illinois and most of the states east of the Mississippi. Whether you have Champaign County ancestors (or no connections to the county at all), are interested in local history, there is a wealth of potentially useful materials available for your research.

Materials may not be borrowed, but photocopiers are available. The Archives has eight public workstations equipped for Internet access. The Archives reference staff is always willing to help beginning genealogists, answer specific questions, or assist visitors in finding desired materials. For the convenience of patrons, the Archives sells a variety of genealogical forms at cost. Also for sale are a number of reference works relating to Champaign County history and genealogy. Copies of these materials are on display in the Archives. Be sure to check out our favorite Internet links for genealogy. If you need materials not owned by the Archives, we can often get them for you on interlibrary loan.

While group visits are welcomed, the Archives does have limited space. Therefore, advance notice of such a visit is appreciated, so that scheduling conflicts can be avoided.

Celebrate American Archives Month at the Champaign County Historical Archives

In celebration of American Archives Month - October 2008 the Champaign County Historical Archives invites you to an:

Open House
Wednesday, October 8
6:00 - 9:00 p.m.

You can learn more about the wealth of materials that we have to offer for your family history or other local history project, receive some tips for preserving your family’s photos, and ask questions of our knowledgeable staff on how to get started! We hope you to see you soon.

Fall 2008 Workshop Series: Genealogy and Local History

This fall the Champaign County Historical Archives is once again offering a series of workshops of interest to genealogists and history enthusiasts. Whether you have Champaign County ancestors (or no connections to the county at all), or are interested in local history, there will be something here for you.

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