COLLECTIONS
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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

Digital Archive & Indexes
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Don't miss our: Online Exhibits Recorded Programs via the Library's YouTube Channel Collections Index for other helpful resources!

Publications
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		Department Brochures Archives and Preservation Black History in Plainfield Buried Treasures Diversity Studies Family History Research Historic Districts of Plainfield Joanne Hollis Gardens Leland Gardens Local History Department (general)
Notable Women of Plainfield (printable) Volunteering in Local History Books A Kid's History of Early Plainfield (FREE, Second Edition) Lost But Not Forgotten (Available for purchase)

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$500	(towards) Historical document or ledger repair and conservation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

In Appreciation

The Local History Department received an operating support grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State. Additionally, the Department is supported, in part, by the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs; the Union County Board of Commissioners; the Plainfield Foundation; the Plainfield Cultural & Heritage Commission; the New Jersey Council for the Humanities; and the Friends of the Plainfield Public Library (FOPPL)

 

WAIT! DON'T THROW IT OUT!

Call the Local History Department before you discard your old Plainfield memorabilia, such as photographs, newsletters, postcards, letters, scrapbooks, diaries, business cards, restaurant menus, event programs, school report cards, maps, club & organization flyers, and anything like these items that document the great history of the Queen City. The Local History Department preserves these records for future generations.

The Black Women's History Conference presents an author talk and book signing with Linda Janet Holmes for her recent book, "Safe in a Midwife's Hands" Mad Creek Books (2023). Due to a less-than-positive experience as a Black woman giving birth in the 1970s, Holmes determinedly learned about alternative birthing traditions and the Black women behind them. In her latest book “Safe in a Midwife’s Hands,” Holmes shares the lessons and experiences of both Southern and African midwives. Joining us will be retired midwife, Shirley White Walker.

ALL ARE WELCOME!