About Us
The City Archives & Special Collections serves as the official repository for the records of the New Orleans city government (See Code of the City of New Orleans, 94:36-41). The Archives is charged with preserving, organizing, and providing equitable access to municipal records transferred to the City Archives’ collection. The Archives were originally established in 1773 by the Spanish Government. In addition, the City Archives & Special Collections also preserves collections important to understanding the history of the City and how it has impacted local government. The department’s extensive Genealogy Collection contains books, periodicals and microfilms with emphasis on New Orleans, Louisiana, the Southeast United States, France, and Spain.
Our History
Learn about the department's history and how our collections have grown.
Hours
Learn about when the Archives is open to researchers.
Location
Find the Archives at the New Orleans Public Library.
Before You Visit
How to schedule an appointment, what to bring and more.
Statement on Archival Content and Description
We are committed to equity in Archives services and collections.
Donations
Learn more about material and financial donations that can be made to the Archives.
Collection Development Policy
Our full Collection Development Policy is available on the New Orleans Public Library's website.
Public Records Law
Public Records Law provides for the preservation, retention, and disposal of public records
Citations
Citing materials from the City Archives & Special Collections
Getting Started with Research
If you are just beginning your research journey with the City Archives & Special Collections, this is the place for you!
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Hours
The City Archives & Special Collections is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Walk-In visitors are welcome, but researchers are encouraged schedule an appointment prior to visiting to ensure materials are available.
Emails will be answered Monday to Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Hours and locations of the New Orleans Public Library Branches.
Location
The City Archives & Special Collections is housed on the Third Floor of the Main Library at 219 Loyola Avenue.
The Library sits on the corner of Tulane Avenue and Loyola Avenue, across Duncan Plaza from City Hall.
Public parking is not available at the facility. Meters and pay lots are available in the surrounding areas.
The Library is accessible by public transportation including bus and streetcar. Information about these options is available through the Regional Transit Authority.
Before You Visit
Please schedule an appointment so that we can best assist you.
Request all items you will need for your visit. Use the Materials Request Guidelines to identify what information you will need to make your request.
Fill out our Researcher Registration Form before you come. The Archives is open to the public and credentials are not required for research.
Review our Rules for Using Collection Materials
What To Bring
- paper and pencil for taking notes
- flash drive to save digital copies
- Laptops, pads and phones may be used for research purposes
Outlets for charging are not available, charging stations are available on the the first floor.
Use of public computers is limited to research on topics relating to Louisiana, New Orleans and Genealogy. Staff may request users discontinue use when applicable. Public computers are available on the first floor of the Main Library.
Food and drink is not allowed in the Archives.