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Local History & Genealogy

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Local History & Genealogy

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Explore our books, pamphlets, clippings and other written sources that tell the story of Topeka’s unique history. You will also find photographs, prints, posters, scrapbooks and audio-visual materials that help bring this history to life. The Topeka Room houses the library’s local history collection. Our digital collection includes historical photographs and the Sherwood Smith blueprints.

 

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Aug 16 Event Moments that Made US Image Aug 16 | 12:00PM - 9:00PM Moments that Made US Outside the Topeka Room Aug 16 Event The 1951 Flood: 75 Years Later Image Aug 16 | 12:00PM - 9:00PM The 1951 Flood: 75 Years Later Topeka Room Aug 17 Event Moments that Made US Image Aug 17 | 09:00AM - 9:00PM Moments that Made US Outside the Topeka Room Aug 17 Event The 1951 Flood: 75 Years Later Image Aug 17 | 09:00AM - 9:00PM The 1951 Flood: 75 Years Later Topeka Room
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How to Make a Donation

Thank you for considering the library for your donation. Read our mission statement below to help understand our collection focus.

Genealogy & Local History

We are the best place to find the history and stories of Topeka and Shawnee County’s people, places, and events.

Here are some of the things we collect: Personal papers, unpublished letters, diaries, etc., maps and architectural drawings, photographs audiovisual materials and family histories.

If you have an item you think is appropriate for one of our collections, please contact us. We will evaluate all items offered to the library. The evaluation process may take several weeks. (Sorry, but we are unable to provide appraisals due to federal regulations.)

See Library Materials Selection Policy for more information about Topeka Room and special collection guidelines.

 
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