Family History

What is available?  

We specialise in information on Derby and its area. We also have many useful family history resources and indexes for the whole country.

For more details of what sources we have, how they can help you and how to access them, check our guide to library sources for Family History.  (476KB)

In addition to using the sources in our library, you can also join one of our friendly, informal courses to help you research your family.  These are advertised on our events page.

We have also compiled a list of recommended web resources.

Research Service

If you are carrying out research, we always recommend you visit us to make the most of our resources. However, we appreciate this is not always possible, so we offer a paid research service. We will carry out research on your behalf, using the resources held by the library.

How much does the Research Service cost?

We charge individuals £30.00 for an initial 60 minutes of research time. We charge commercial companies £60.00 for an initial 60 minutes of research time.

How do I pay?

Payment is made in advance by cheque, postal order or money order. We cannot accept payment by credit card and you should not send cash by post. Cheques should be made payable to Derby City Council. Overseas payments can be accepted. Please ask staff at your bank for advice on the best method to make overseas payments in pounds sterling.

What does the charge cover?

The charge covers 60 minutes of the researcher’s time. A search will be made using the resources held by the Library. Once the research has been completed, we will send you a reply indicating which sources we have checked and what relevant information has been found, quoting for the cost of any copies, where relevant. Although every effort will be made to find the information for you, regretfully not every search is successful. As the charge is made to cover the staff time involved, we are not able to offer refunds.

What do you need to tell us?

Please make your research questions as specific as you can. Accurate dates, locations and names are helpful and will improve our chances of success.

If you would like to go ahead with this service please complete, print and return the Research Service Order Form  (102KB) with your payment to:

Derby Local Studies Library
25b Irongate,
Derby
DE1 3GL

If you do not have access to print facilities, you can write to us with your research questions and payment.