Edgar T. Brown Local History Archives (ETBA)
The Edgar T. Brown Local History Archive is located inside the Meyera E. Oberndorf (MEO) Central Library. Customers can search the archive holdings by going to their online catalog at www.vbgov.com/archives, or they can search through the VBPL's online catalog.
Many archival items are available as digital copies or as microfilm. Please see our Digital Archives for more information about digital materials.
Customers needing access to original documents may make an appointment to view archival materials by emailing archives@vbgov.com or calling (757) 385-0150 in advance to set up an appointment. Please note the collection number(s) and box(es) you wish to view.
Local History and Genealogical Collection
VBPL hosts a comprehensive local history and genealogical (LHGN) reference collection at the MEO Central Library. This collection is available to the public during regular business hours and is self-service. No appointment is required to view these materials.
The LHGN reference collection comprises books, microform, digital resources, and periodicals. Topics covered include how-to books, local histories, and genealogical resources, emphasizing Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, and Kentucky.
VBPL also subscribes to Ancestry Library Edition, the Virginian-Pilot Newspaper (Newsbank), and the Norfolk Journal and Guide (Proquest) for our customers' research. Please see our digital library research page for more information.
As a Family Search Library Affiliate, the MEO Central Library provides computer access to Family Search Center Resources. Customers can only access these resources by logging on to FamilySearch.org through MEO Central Library computers.
For additional information about the local history and genealogy reference collection or to search for reference materials, please visit the VBPL's online catalog.