Genealogy, Family History, & Local History Resources
Many people from throughout the country and around the world have ancestors who once lived in our section of Northwestern North Carolina, and many interested researchers of family history seek to connect with their ancestry through resources in our local library system.
Our Library does not currently have a full-time Genealogy Librarian on staff. However, requests for obituary look-ups from the local newspaper are available, if specific information (date of decease & full name) is known. Call any Adult Services staff member for more information at (828) 264-8784, Extension 2, or send a message via our contact form [direct inquiries to Adult Services].
Volunteers in the Watauga Community Offering Help with Family History Research
Our community is fortunate to have local residents who are willing to help members of the public with their Family History/Genealogy Research. Use our Contact Form [direct inquiries to Adult Services] to inquire about this option.
About Visiting the Genealogy Collection
Visitors and local residents alike are welcome to visit the Genealogy section to conduct their own research.
Use of the collection is free, and the Genealogy collection is available during regular library hours.
Anyone with an interest in the Watauga County area’s history will find our small collection worth a visit!
Also, our neighboring Libraries in Ashe County & Wilkes County each have Genealogy & Local History Rooms, which are also well worth visiting.
Ancestry Library
We also offer access to Ancestry Library for those who are interested in genealogy and family history. You can access this resource if you're working from one of our public access computers at any of our Appalachian Regional Library locations.
For general genealogy questions or questions about these resources, e-mail us directly via our contact form.
Digital Watauga
Connect to our local history by accessing Watauga County’s historical images, documents, and other materials.
Visit the Digital Watauga website for online digital collections of the High Country's archival memories, including the work of late local photographers such as Palmer Blair and George Flowers.
