Valparaiso Community Library

A superb resource for anyone doing genealogy or history research in Northwest, Florida

The library has a truly impressive genealogy and history collection which is growing daily. From a recent brochure: "Housed in the Louise Kiisel Fitzgerrald Genealogy Department, the collection has over 4,000 printed volumes and hundreds of microfilm and microfiche documents. Established in the late 1980s, the genealogy collection has been used by patrons and visitors from around the world. The library also has Internet access to hundreds of global genealogy websites, making research in the South, Europe, Africa, South American, the Middle East, Asia, and across the United States possible."

While this has been an impressive resource over the past 20 years, it has become much more inviting and useful under the supervision of Director David Weatherford, who says, "We now have over 6500 books and documents in the genealogy collection. And, we are now the largest genealogical library in Northwest Florida." David has enlarged and framed about 50 photos of life in the area. These 1920 photos are displayed around the library near the ceiling. He has also reoriented the genealogy section, making it more pleasing and easier to use. Plans are to finish a room where patrons may use microform readers without disturbing others. The filing cabinets housing this material are already in the room. Photo on right is the lounge area in the genealogy section.

Reference and how-to books are available to help beginners. Forms for recording census information may be purchased at a reasonable fee. A photocopy machine is available, also at reasonable cost.

Special collections such as the impressive 128 volume "War of the Rebellion" series, published census records, county Heritage books and others enhance the more than 400 family histories. Military History, African American research, Genealogical and Historical Journals, and a growing section on Native Americans are but a few useful items.

Hours and location may be found at the county's site for the library:
http://www.readokaloosa.org/details_valp.htm l

It is suggested that one may make best use of their time on a first visit by coming early in the day when staff is available to help. Phone is: (850) 729-5406.
 

Seating area for researchers.

Bookshelves arranged alphabetically by state

Computer area

The children's area in the main library. Story time is greatly enjoyed here.