Local History Department

The Local History department is the home of the largest local history collection in Union County in addition to a broad and diverse variety of special collections. 

The Local History Collections are composed of books, documents, photographs, blueprints, maps, newspapers and local organizations' records of significance in Plainfield. In addition to County and State histories, the library also has significant publications on the American Revolution and the Civil War.

The Special Collections include fine art, genealogy, diversity, the archives professional collection, New Jersey and United States history, as well as the original library collection from the 1800’s. There is also an additional set of books that support our collections such as photography, art, architecture, and historic preservation.

Using the Collections

* Please note: The Local History and Special Collections are held in closed stacks. *

We are pleased to assist, without charge, researchers who come to the library to access our Local History collections, but appointments must be made ahead with the Local History staff. However, due to our limited staff, requests recieved by mail, electronically and by phone attract a nominal fee. We are happy to receive these requests using the form below.

Research Guidelines and Fees (Adobe PDF file)

Download Adobe Reader

Photocopy Rates

Items photocopied in the department by Local History staff are subject to the following fees:

• Blueprints - $5 per page (the first page must be included in items for copy)
• Computer print-outs - 25 cents per page
• Black and White copies - 25 cents per page

Donation Information

The Local History department is dedicated to preserving the history of Plainfield, New Jersey, and its residents. Many collections in Local History -- especially the photograph and postcard collections-- have been enhanced by donations from Plainfield residents and their decendants all over the country.

If you are interested in making a donation, please contact the Head of the Local History department, Jessica Myers, at 908-757-1111, ext. 136.

Copyright Information

Reproductions of any materials from our collection are supplied for reference purposes only. The Plainfield Public Library is not responsible for the misuse of copyrighted material. Permission to publish photographic material must be applied for in writing. Permission to publish does not constitute a copyright clearance.