Davenport Public Library
Contact Information[edit | edit source]Email: specialcollections@davenportlibrary.com Description of Collections[edit | edit source]The distinguished local history collection includes unique archive and manuscript materials, an extensive book collection including: city directories, a local authors collection, and local cookbook collection, local and regional newspapers, maps and atlases, oral histories, film footage, images numbering over 70,000, and architectural drawings from local firms. Records generated by Scott County, Iowa, the City of Davenport, public and private schools, churches, cemeteries, businesses, clubs, and organizations are available for research and study. The exceptional genealogy resources focus on Scott County, Iowa and the Quad-City region, as well as the midwestern states. Resources pertaining to the New England region and states along migration routes are also available. Volumes of compiled genealogies, census records, passenger lists, and military records enhance the collection and can be identified in the library's online catalog along with a robust collection of books and periodicals. The Richardson-Sloane Special Collections Center proudly houses the 1700+ title collection of the Scott County Iowa Genealogical Society as well as the Richardson-Sloane Genealogical Library. Special Collections also offers community access to online subscription resources: Ancestry Library, HeritageQuest, and Newspaper Archive. We are now pleased to announce our status as a FamilySearch Affiliate Library. The Davenport Public Library is also a Selective Federal Depository Library of government documents through the Federal Depository Library Program. Special Collections provides access to more than 35,000 items in book, film, and electronic formats. In addition, the Davenport Public Library is designated as a depository under the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Services[edit | edit source]Reference & Research The most important resource of Special Collections is the attentive and experienced reference service offered to on-site and off-site patrons by its four full-time and one part-time staff members. From providing assistance with a research question, to aiding in the use of the collection, to instructing how to use the equipment in Special Collections, the staff are happy to assist patrons. Programming & Instruction In order to achieve the mission of promoting literacy and learning, access, and use of local history materials of the Richardson-Sloane Special Collections Center, Special Collections staff provide instructional opportunities for people of all ages. Instruction will include creating collection guides focusing on K-12 and secondary education initiatives, offering instruction sessions for specific courses, and embedded librarianship within the classroom. Tours Special Collections Staff are happy to give tours to visiting individuals and groups. Please call 563-326-7902 in advance to schedule a tour. History[edit | edit source]Learn more about the Davenport Public Library's history by visiting our A Brief History of the Davenport Public Library Tips for Your Visit[edit | edit source]
Guides[edit | edit source]Research Guides |