Special Collections at Main Library
The Richmond Room (Main Library, 1st floor) is the access point for Richmond Public Libraryâs Special Collections. Special Collections materials are non-circulating and may be accessible by appointment only. To make an appointment or learn more about our Special Collections, call (804) 646-0117 or email RichmondRoom@rva.gov.
Richmond History Materials
- City Archives
- Richmond Public Library is designated by the City of Richmond to be responsible for the care and keeping of written public records of the City. The City Archives Collection contains non-current but historically valuable records of city government such as annual reports of the City of Richmond, ordinances and resolutions of the City Council, and departmental records.
- Ephemera Files
- Over 1,500 files of ephemera related to local subjects, including flyers, maps, photographs, and documents.
- Yearbooks
- Yearbooks from elementary, middle, high schools, and universities in the Greater Richmond area.
- Records of Local Organizations
- Records of some local organizations including the Rosemary Library, Virginia Mechanicsâ Institute, and the Richmond Education Association.
Local Newspapers and Periodicals
Publications from the Greater Richmond area in varying formats, including print and microfilm. Includes local newspapers such as Richmond Times-Dispatch, Richmond News Leader, Richmond Free Press, Richmond Afro-American, Richmond Planet, Style Weekly, and Richmond Voice.
Richmond Authors Collection
Publications representing the work of Richmondâs writers reflecting the breadth and range of their accomplishments. Includes the works of authors who have lived in the Greater Richmond area for at least one year and provides an important link to Richmondâs development, growth, heritage, and culture.
Zine Collection
Contemporary self-published, handmade booklets and pamphlets that include art, minicomics, and personal/political writings from the zine community in Richmond, VA, and in other cities.
Rare Childrenâs Books
International and American childrenâs books of historical interest including Rare Childrenâs Books (RCB), Rare Childrenâs Series (RCS), Rare Tucker Collection (RTC) and Foreign Childrenâs Books (FCB). These individual collections were drawn from the Libraryâs earlier holdings or were provided through gifts.
Records of the Richmond Public Library
Photographs, meeting minutes, reports, ephemera, and plans related to Richmond Public Library and its support organizations – Richmond Public Library Foundation and Friends of the Richmond Public Library.
For information on additional collections related to Richmond history, visit our Local History & Genealogy page.
Special Collections
- Materials can be accessed by appointment in the Special Collections room located on the basement level of the Main Library. Walk-in requests may not be accommodated.
- Items in Special Collections cannot be checked out, but scans and photography of material is encouraged. Richmond Public Libraryâs Memory Lab is conveniently located in Special Collections and equipment may be used to make scans and copies.
- Outside food and uncovered drinks are not allowed in Special Collections.
- For in-depth research assistance or inquiries, please contact Special Collections staff at (804) 646-0117 or email RichmondRoom@rva.gov.
Digital Collections
- Our digital collections are a mix of library-owned materials and materials shared by the public, City of Richmond departments, and local organizations. Some Special Collections materials have been digitized and are available for online access. Browse our digital collections here: https://rvalibrary.contentdm.oclc.org/