Collections
View Collections Index
 Our historical collections include Plainfield history, fine art, genealogy, diversity studies, oral history, personal papers & manuscripts, records of local organizations, Jerseyana, and United States history, as well as the original Library collection from the 1800’s. There is also an additional set of books on subjects that support our collections such as photography, art, architecture, and historic preservation.
Be sure to check out the Genealogy page!
The Local History, Genealogy and Special Collections
are held in closed stacks. Collection items do not circulate and may only be viewed in the Plainfield Room
Publications
Some publications may take a few seconds to download.
*(Adobe PDF file - download Adobe for viewing)
In Appreciation
The Local History Department is supported by funding from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State;
the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs; the Plainfield Foundation;
the Plainfield Cultural & Heritage Commission; and the Friends of the Plainfield Public Library.
Help Support Us
Your financial donation can provide:
| $10 to $25 |
Archival Document Cases and Cartons (various sizes)
Photograph Digitization |
| $30 |
Archival Photograph sleeves |
| $40 |
Archival Folders or Custom Boxes |
| $50 |
Archival Frame Kit or Book Purchase |
| $150 |
Archival Poster Frame Kit |
| $200 |
Purchase of an Historical Publication |
| $500 |
(towards) Historical document or ledger repair and conservation |
| $1,000 + |
(towards) Historical map repair conservation |
|
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Memoir Writing Club
The next meeting of the Memoir Writing Club is Thursday, July 12th, at 10:30 am in room 8 (on the lower level).
This month's theme is "art."
Learn more here
Plainfield Genealogy Club
Are you interested in your family's history? You are invited to this first meeting of the Plainfield Genealogy Club. Join us on Saturday, June 16, from 1 to 3 pm in the Anne Louise Davis Room (on the lower level). Beginners welcome!
Tri-County History Fair
The 2018 Tri-County History Fair is scheduled for Saturday, September 29, 2018 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This year's featured speaker is Judy Russell, Legal Genealogist. Program details will follow soon.
If your history-related organization is interested in tabling at the event, please contact us regarding how to register.
Annual Photography Contest
This year's contest theme is "Holidays in Plainfield." Submissions are due by Saturday, September 29, 2018.
Learn more here
Digital Archive & Indexes
Search Image Collections
 Our digital image collections are constantly growing, and are composed of over 55,000 photographs, postcards, and blueprints. All of these records are viewable online. In addition, patrons can now access Plainfield's historical city directories and the Plainfield's early newspapers online for free. Some of our special digital projects include:
Reproduction Fees
|
B&W Photocopies
|
25 cents per page |
|
Color Photocopies
|
50 cents per page |
|
Digital Scans
|
See Below* |
| Computer Printouts |
25 cents per page |
| Microfilm Printouts |
25 cents per page |
| Blueprints |
$5 per page (11" x 17") |
| Blueprints on DVD |
$25 per disc* |
Certain items are too fragile to be photocopied or scanned. In some cases, the items may be photographed by Library staff and the images printed or saved to CD for patron use. Please see forms below for details about our specific policies regarding visual materials and documents.
Patrons unable to come into the Library may pay online via PayPal. We can no longer accept personal checks. Contact the Local History Department at 908-757-1111 x136 for more information.
*Please refer to Reproduction Fee & Use Form below.
For More Information
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