Genealogists ask a lot of questions. That’s what research is all about! Some of the same questions keep coming up over and over, however, particularly among those new to researching our collections. Here are some of the most popular genealogy questions, with the answers you need to get started in our Genealogy and Historical Collections.
1. Where is the Clark County Genealogy and Historical Collections Department located?
The Clark County Genealogy and Historical Collections are held at Marshall Public Library. The library is located at 612 Archer Avenue, Marshall, IL 62441. The Genealogy and Historical Collections Department is in the former Activity Room at the rear of the library. When entering the library, head straight back towards the circulation desk. The department is just past the desk, at the rear of the building.
2. When is the collection available for research?
The Clark County Genealogy and Historical Collections are available for research during normal library hours which are:
Monday - 10 am to 6 pm
Tuesday - 10 am to 6 pm
Wednesday - 10 am to 6 pm
Thursday - 10 am to 8 pm
Friday - 10 am to 5 pm
Saturday - 10 am to 5 pm
3. What materials are available in the collections?
The Clark County Genealogy and Historical Collections contain a wide variety of materials including
*300+ volumes of county records - births, deaths, marriages, churches, schools, military, etc.
*1800+ family history volumes and files
*Many bound volumes from other states, including early passenger lists
4. Are photocopies allowed? What about scanning or photographing materials?
Materials in the library's Genealogy and Historical Collections Department may be photocopied, scanned or photographed with your own device. Photocopies are $0.15 for black and white and $0.50 for color. There is no charge for scanning or photographing materials.
Many of the materials in the collection were received from the collection of the former Clark County Genealogical Library and may contain a disclaimer stating that materials may not be copied, scanned, or uploaded to websites; please disregard this notice.
5. Who can I contact for help with my search?
For assistance, please use the online form, email Head Librarian Jamie Poorman at jpoorman@marshallplib.com or call the library at 217-826-2535.
6. I have materials relating to my Clark County family or county history. Do you accept donations?
Marshall Public Library is accepting donations for the Genealogy and Historical Collections Department. Family histories that have been printed and organized into binders or folders, ready for the shelf, are very much appreciated. We are happy to discuss the donation of family history materials, photographs, etc. in physical or digital form. To discuss a donation, please contact Head Librarian Jamie Poorman at jpoorman@marshallplib.com.
7. I would like to contribute information on my family. How can I do that?
Family histories that have been printed and organized into binders or folders, ready for the shelf, are very much appreciated.
If you would like to add to an existing family history in our collection (to add individuals that were born after the material was printed for example), we will accept that information and add it to what is already on file with a note on when and by whom it was submitted. Information may be turned in to library staff on paper or submitted using the Family History Update form.