What is Local Studies?

From SLNSW

Local Studies is the study of your local area and generally results in a collection of resources.

Local Studies Collections

Local Studies Collections in public libraries

• Vary greatly in size, scope and content.
• Collect and make accessible historical and geographical material.
• Contain material from the present as well as the past.
• Contain information in a wide range of original and copy formats, including (but not limited to) books; unpublished manuscripts; newspapers and periodicals; maps and plans; photographs; glass plate and film negatives; colour slides; microfilms and fiche; audio tapes; video tapes; DVDs; realia (physical items such as Honour Roll boards etc.); artworks; pamphlets; topic files; etc.

The scope of your Local Studies collection will be described in your library's collection development policy.

Local Studies guidelines are included in Living Learning Libraries

Exercises

1. Does your library have a Local Studies collection?
2. Where is your Local Studies collection located?
3. How does the public access the collection?
4. Does your library have a Local Studies librarian, or is there a staff member who usually answers these types of questions?
5. Look in your collection development policy at the section on Local Studies. How current is it?