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The Edgar T. Brown Local History Archive, Virginia Beach Public Library

Welcome to the online catalog for the Edgar T. Brown Local History Archive (ETBA) of the Virginia Beach Public Library. Here you can browse the special collections and archival holdings of the ETBA.

The Edgar T. Brown Local History Archive

The Edgar T. Brown Local History Archive is located on the ground floor of the Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library and serves as the main repository for the City of Virginia Beach and Princess Anne County history. Materials found in the collections in various formats include newspapers, obituaries, scrapbooks, family and local history subject files and photographs, maps, and artifacts. The Archive's role is to actively pursue the acquisition, preservation, processing, and digitization of artifacts, and enhance the community's access to its history through community records and books.

Accessing the Edgar T. Brown Local History Archive

The ETBA materials are available for research on an appointment-only basis. Every effort is made to provide reasonable assistance to those needing it.

To make an appointment to view archival materials please email archives@vbgov.com or call 757-385-0150. Please be sure to note the collection number(s) and box(es) that you wish to view.

Staffing levels do not allow for extensive research assistance; if you have a research question, please contact us at archives@vbgov.com.

Local History and Genealogy Reference Collection

The Virginia Beach Public Library hosts a large and comprehensive local history and genealogy reference collection at their Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library location. This collection is open and available to the public during normal business hours, and is self-service. No appointment is required to view these materials.

For information about the local history and genealogy reference collection or to search for reference materials, please visit the Virginia Beach Public Library Online catalog.