Hours

The Local History Collection is available for use when the History Center is open. If your research will involve extensive assistance, please call (714) 288-2465 in advance for an appointment or to have materials gathered for your research. All materials are for in-library use only and do not check out. You can order copy prints of our historical photographs; plan for a minimum turnaround time of one week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the archives?
The local history collection is located at the Main Library & History Center, 407 E. Chapman Ave.  In order to protect and preserve the collection, it is maintained in a secured area, as is the case with all special collections. Library staff will bring the materials to you. When possible, we purchase duplicate circulating copies of books, and items from our files may be photocopied.

How can I research information in the archives?
Begin your search with Local History staff at the History Center. You can call (714) 288-2465 if you would like a staff member to do a preliminary search for your topic. Books in the collection are indexed in the library catalog, and can be searched online in the library or from home (http://library.cityoforange.org). Finding aids are available to locate other materials.

Can I get a copy of a historical photograph?

We can have copy photographs made of most of the photographs in our collection, unless we do not hold the reproduction rights. Notebooks containing photocopies of many images in the collection are at the Information Plaza, and reference staff can search our photo database for others, as we get new donations continuously.

Does the library have anything to help me research my home in Old Towne?
We have a copy of the Old Towne Historic Inventory, Sanborn Maps, City Directories, microfilm of local papers from 1888 to the present, photographs, and files for some of the homes and former residents. The library also has books on identifying architectural style and renovation.

Why aren't the local history materials out on the open shelves, where I can easily browse through them?
The primary reason is so we can preserve the heritage of the City of Orange. Many items are fragile, unique and valuable, and require special handling. The wide variety of materials requires unique storage arrangements, and your search can usually be more successful with the assistance of staff familiar with the arrangement. You may find some of the books duplicated in the circulating collection.