Local studies collection

This collection provides information on all aspects on the history of Southampton and Hampshire. It includes books, periodicals, newspapers, directories, maps and illustrations. Ample study space is available and trained staff are always on hand to help with your enquiries.

Documents and books in the local history collection are for reference only.

For anybody wishing to borrow local history, there is a collection of books, videos and pamphlets available for loan on the lower ground floor of the central library and smaller collections in local libraries.

Visit our Portcities Southampton - Plimsoll website for a wealth of information about the history of Southampton. The site includes thousands of photographs and images of Southampton, information on the history of Southampton docks and a selection of historic street directories.