Local Studies Library

Opening hours:

  • Monday: 10am to 1pm, 2pm to 7pm
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 10am to 1pm, 2pm to 5.30pm
  • Thursday: Closed
  • Friday: 10am to 1pm, 2pm to 5.30pm
  • Saturdays (1st and 3rd of the month):
    10am to 1pm, 2pm to 4.30pm

Closed at other times, including public holidays.

We collect books, photographs, maps, newspapers and other items that are of value in the study of the past, present and future of Croydon. You can view them by visiting us on Level 3 of the Central Library.

You do not need to be a member of the library or book to see these great resources. However, it may help if you contact us in advance to find out whether we have what you are looking for.

You cannot borrow items from our collection, but there are books on local history in the main library. Manuscripts and documents are held in the archive collections.

Available equipment:

  • PCs with internet access
  • microfilm and fiche reader/printers
  • coin-operated photocopier
  • camera copying stand.

There may be restrictions on copying certain items because of copyright regulations or because of the fragile condition of the material.

Collection contents

If you want to find a particular item on our shelves, you will need to find its reference number and, sometimes, its class number beforehand. These can be found in the paper catalogues.

Types of material held:

  • books
  • photographs
  • maps and plans
  • local newspapers and periodicals
  • sales particulars
  • census returns 1841-1901
  • war records, including the Roll of Honour
  • electoral registers from 1883
  • parish registers
  • street directories
  • telephone books

Contact Details

Local Studies Library
Telephone 020 8726 6900
Fax 020 8253 1012
Email localstudies@croydon.gov.uk
Address Level 3
Central Library
Croydon Clocktower
Katharine Street
Croydon CR9 1ET

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