Local Studies Collection
An extensive range of local history resources is available to the researcher, including books, article files, newspapers, photographs, maps and plans. Local newspapers are on microfilm and date back to the 1880's. These can be viewed and photocopies are available.
Family History Resources
A variety of resources are available in book form, microfiche, microfilm and CD-ROM. All are readily available to the family history researcher. (Click on Genealogy button at top of page for further information).
The library subscribes to the genealogical website Ancestry.com, which you can access at the library.
These are original records lodged by local organizations, businesses and individuals. They may include such items as minute books, financial records, diaries, correspondence, photo albums, membership books, histories, biographies, employment records, registers, maps and plans, etc.
Some access restrictions may apply to these records.
The archives holds a photograph collection of several thousand images relating to Broken Hill and district dating back to the 1880's. Formats include glass negatives, positive prints, negatives, slides and digital images.
A wide variety of images are currently available on a searchable database. This database can only be viewed at the archives.
Digital printouts or photographic copies are available of images held in the archives.
The Outback Archives is a regional repository for NSW State Records (formerly State Archives). As such it holds records relating to some State Government Agencies and for local government. It also holds a copy of the State Records l Research Kit which is a microfilm/fiche collection containing records relating to the early colonization of Australia and subsequent development of NSW. These include:
- Colonial Secretary's Papers
- Shipping Records
- Convict Records
- Land Records
- Some Birth, Death and Marriage Records
- Coroner's Reports of Inquests
- Professions and Occupations
- Electoral Rolls
- Census Records
While there are access restrictions on original state records, the Reearch Kit is freely available to researchers. The kit is made available under the Access for All program of NSW State Records.
The collection has a wide range of academic readings, reports and books which have a regional focus. Newspaper articles are also available as they deal with current issues and highlight personal achievements. Visits to the archives may be arranged for school and community groups by contacting the library. Archives staff are also available for talks and presentations.
The archives is active in compiling a social history of Broken Hill and its residents through the collection of life stories, memoirs and reminiscences. Submissions of same are most welcome.
Monday to Friday
9am to 1pm
Tuesday and Thursday
2pm to 5pm by appointment only