Westerly Library and Wilcox Park’s Special Collections encompass local history, genealogy materials, as well as rare books, manuscripts and artifacts. These materials reflect the rich history of Westerly, Rhode Island and Pawcatuck, Connecticut. In addition to a wide variety of books relating to the history of Westerly and the surrounding area, the collection includes:
- Margaret Wise Brown papers
- Historical photographs
- Historic documents
- Genealogies
- Old postcards
- Maps
- Westerly, RI and Stonington, CT yearbooks
- City directories for Westerly and Pawcatuck beginning with 1875
- Vertical files containing clippings from local newspapers on topics of local interest
Using the Collection
Special Collections material do not circulate. Materials must not be subjected to any risk of damage during their use, no food, drink, ink, rough handling, etc.
Since many of the materials are not cataloged, it is important to contact the library first to determine if the desired information is available. It may take some time for staff to locate certain items or information.
Queries by Mail or Email
Staff can provide basic assistance with long distance research. In lieu of a research fee, a donation to Special Collections would be welcomed. We request a $10.00 donation for each search.
All search requests must be submitted in writing and include pertinent names, dates and subjects to be researched. Please email the Special Collections Librarian, Nina Wright for additional information at nwright@westerlylibrary.org or 401-596-2877 ext. 310.
Donations
We welcome donations of materials that meet the criteria of the Collection Policy. Great treasures found in local attics will be cared for and shared by future generations at Westerly Library and Wilcox Park upon donation.
Local History Remote Access
Enjoy photos from home!
Westerly Library and Wilcox Park's Photo Collection on Flickr
Westerly High School Yearbooks on Flickr
Westerly Digitized Newspapers:
The Literary Echo and Pawcatuck Advertiser, 1851-1854
The Literary Echo and Pawcatuck Advertiser, 1854-1858
Library of Congress Sanborn Maps for Washington County
Westerly Historical Society Local Genealogies
The Special Collections Local History room is open. Appointments are preferred to allow us time to gather materials for you in advance. Alternatively, the room is open weekdays from 10:00 am-4:00 pm (Thursdays 12:00-4:00 pm), with the exceptions for meetings and capacity restrictions.
There are many questions coming in so we ask for your patience. Questions go into a queue and are answered in the order they are received.
