Research Library

Located in the old Almshouse, the Historical Society of Baltimore County's Library houses information from every known tombstone in both church and family cemeteries in Baltimore County.  Here you will also find a growing collection of books and maps (copies of some are for sale), census records, marriage records, slave schedules, family histories, ledgers, photographs, clippings, and manuscripts related to the history and genealogy of Baltimore County.

HOLDINGS:

• *New - Complete Library Shelf Holdings - 3,000+ (may take a minute to load)

• *New - Photograph Collection - 5,000+ Photographs of Baltimore County, from nineteenth century to present (may take a minute to load)

• *New - Genealogy Surname Vertical Files - 3,900+ files, with hundreds more being added 

• *Coming Soon - Complete listing of of our 1000+ topically organized vertical files

• The published Archives of Maryland volumes 1 through 72. 

• Maryland Historical Magazine - almost every issue from 1907 to 2008

• Publications for Sale

• Maps

• History Trails (Our quarterly publication since 1966)

HOURS:  
Fridays noon to 4 p.m.
Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Second Wednesdays of each month from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

The library is closed on major holidays and some holiday weekends. See General Information Page for directions.

RESEARCH:

• The entrance fee is $5.00 per visit for non-members. Research assistance is available from volunteers at no charge when you are in the library.

• Members are free.

• Research request forms are available.

• Independent researchers for hire are also available. 

• Library materials do not circulate.

• Call for more information: 410-666-1878.

RESEARCH LINKS:

• Maps
• Family Histories (A to I)
• Family Histories (J to Z)
• Records
• Publications for Sale 
• History Trails for Sale
• Wish List

FAQ:

Can photocopies be made?
Yes. The cost per page is 25 cents for letter size copies.

Is there someone to help me with my research?
Yes. Volunteers are available to help you with your research, and independent Researchers for Hire, already familiar with HSBC, are available at hourly rates.

Can I call or e-mail the Historical Society of Baltimore County for research requests?
Yes! You can e-mail us simple questions, and if it involves a brief search we will let you know if we do, or do not have information that may help you.