The Local Studies collection houses material on the local area (within the boundaries of Penrith City, including limited material covering neighbouring areas). The collection houses books, reports/environmental studies, magazines, newspaper clippings, maps and plans, land records, council rate and valuation records, photographs, manuscripts, personal and family papers, and oral histories.

The Library’s Research Services team manages the specialist collections held in the Research Room of the Library. They assist researchers with enquiries relating to the history and development of the City of Penrith, its people and places.

The local studies collection documents the historical development of the City of Penrith. All material is available for use in the Research Room. The collection comprises published and unpublished contemporary and historical research material.

The family history resources include biographical, genealogical, cemetery, and local government information on local families and pioneers. We actively collect publications and files, and records on local families.

A self-serve photocopier is available in the room during opening hours. Copying restrictions may apply to some Local Studies items – please check with staff on duty in the room if uncertain. The use of a digital camera is permissible.

More local historical information is available on the penrithhistory.com website

Opening Monday to Sunday 2 pm – 5 pm (or by appointment).

Postal address:
PO Box 60, Penrith 2751