La Crosse Public Library Archives Department Information

Search Site Catalog

Live Reference: M-F 9-4; Sat 9-1; Sun 1-5 Contact Us: (608) 789-7136 / email

About the Archives

{

The Archives & Local History Department at the La Crosse Public Library holds a non-circulating collection of materials which has been developed around two major themes: local history and genealogy.

Mission Statement

The local history emphasis directs the Archives to identify, collect, organize, preserve, publicize and provide public access to primary and secondary resources that document the history of La Crosse.

The Archives also serves as the official repository for historic City of La Crosse public records.

Genealogical collections are broader in scope and reflect the interests and informational needs of La Crosse area residents.

Local History & Genealogy Reference Services

Due to a library-wide construction project beginning in the summer of 2025, beginning on May 15, Archives staff will be available for live local history reference and genealogy resource assistance services via phone or email M-F 12-4pm. Please contact Archives staff with any questions. We appreciate your patience during this time and look forward to welcoming you back to the improved spaces once the work is completed.

Appointments During Closure

Archives staff will have limited access to the physical archival collections during the construction project. Research appointments to view materials may be possible with advanced notice. This will be on a case-by-case basis and will ultimately be at Archives staff discretion.