The Research Library
About the Research Library
The St. Augustine Historical Society Research Library preserves collections of printed, microfilmed, manuscript, digital, and pictorial materials relating to Florida history in a non-governmental repository. The Research Library is an outgrowth of two of Florida’s oldest cultural institutions: The Free Library Association of St. Augustine (est. 1872) and the St. Augustine Historical Society (est. 1883).
The Research Library is open to the public, and our collections are of national importance due to the unique quality of our resources. We have translations of the earliest church records in the nation that date back to 1594, copies of official colonial documents from 1513 through 1821, and other manuscripts. Our collections also house meticulous genealogical data from the sixteenth century to the present.
Research Appointments
Hours: Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Research appointments are required. To make an appointment please call the library. Masks are optional.
Contact: (904) 825-2333 ext. 2
There is no charge to use the library but there are charges for photocopies and reproductions. Camera phones are allowed with Librarian permission, photo images are not charged. For more information see our FEE SCHEDULE.
The Gibbs Reading Room
The Research Library is a specialized, closed-stack library, with the exception of a small reference collection in the main reading room; the librarians will retrieve the items that you request from the reference collection.
Location: The Research Library is located on 6 Artillery Lane at the corner of Aviles Street and Artillery Lane--one block south of the main downtown plaza. Our reading room is located on the second floor. Patrons unable to climb stairs should call ahead, the library has a first floor reading room for those who are mobility challenged.
Parking: The Research Library does not provide parking, but there are a number of metered spaces and parking lots nearby.
Our Holdings
PLEASE NOTE: Any items located in offsite storage require 2 business days notice prior to your scheduled research appointment.
Follow this link to find indices to our holdings including newspapers, manuscripts, church records, digital collections, images, and more!
Online Reading Room
Quick access to our notable collections within the Research Library. Includes clickable links to the available online catalog records.
Contribute to History
Do you have something you would like to donate?
Gifts and Materials Donations
The SAHSRL accepts donations of books and other materials pertaining to the contents of the collections. The Research Library welcomes donations of rare and unique materials of research interest to members, patrons, and the community.
The Chief Librarian and designated staff work closely with donors to identify materials appropriate for adding to our collection. Donors are encouraged to provide and inventory or overall summary of the collection in advance of delivery for staff review. After the staff and the donor have agreed in principle that the materials are appropriate for preserving in the Library collections, they will have the materials transported to the Library, where they will be stored for processing, arrangement, and description by staff. A Deed of Gift form will be completed by staff taking in a donation, and signed by the donor.
Please contact our Chief Librarian with any questions.
Another way to contribute to history is to become a member. Click here to learn the different membership levels and benefits of joining us!