Research Library & Archives
Maps, photographs, yearbooks, telephone directories, oral histories and business records documenting Shasta County — plus reference material for Northern California and the state.
Holdings
What the collection holds
The Library is non-lending. Archival access requires a minimum of one week's advance notice, and some restrictions apply.
- Maps
- Photographs
- Yearbooks
- Telephone directories
- Reference books
- Business records
- Personal correspondence
- Oral histories
- Newspapers
How it works
Making a research request
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Send your question
Email shs@shastahistorical.org, or write to 1449 Market St., Redding, CA 96001, Attention: Visitor Services. Call (530) 243-3720 if you would rather talk it through.
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Staff search the collection
Our Collections Manager reviews the archive for material that fits your request and pulls what is available.
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Book a visit, or wait for a reply
Appointments can be scheduled directly with Gabriel Leete. Written requests are normally answered within two to three weeks, though this varies with the request.
Costs
Fees
| Who | What it costs |
|---|---|
| Members | Free — library visits and staff assistance at no charge |
| Non-members | Visits free; questions answered in under 15 minutes free |
| Non-members, extended help | $15 per hour for library use and staff assistance beyond 15 minutes |
Online
Search the online database
Searchable by subject
Begin your research from home. The database is searchable by subject so you can find material directly related to your topic. Note that it contains only a portion of our collections — if you cannot find what you are looking for, call (530) 243-3720 or email shs@shastahistorical.org.
Before you visit
Practical questions
Can I borrow materials?
No. The Library is a non-lending library. Reference books, yearbooks, telephone books and similar materials are available for use during research only.
How far ahead should I book?
Archival access requires a minimum of one week's notice. On-site library appointments should be made at least two weeks in advance — though on-site research is unavailable while the building is under repair.
How long will a written request take?
Normally two to three weeks, depending on the nature of the request.
Can I donate material?
All donations are welcome for consideration provided they meet our collecting criteria. See the How To Donate page for details.
Local
Links for further research
Other collections and records covering Shasta County. We add and update links continuously — email us if you know a good history site.
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Shasta Public Libraries
County public library system.
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Redding Record Searchlight
Local newspaper of record.
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Intermountain News
Regional news coverage.
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Shasta College Library
Academic library collections.
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Shasta Lake Heritage & Historical Society
Neighbouring historical society.
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Shasta State Historical Park
State park interpreting historic Shasta.
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Turtle Bay
Museum and exploration park in Redding.
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Shasta County Cemeteries
Burial records for genealogical research.
Wider research
State and national archives
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California State Library
Statewide collections and services.
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California Historical Society
State history collections.
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Online Archive of California
Finding aids for archives across California.
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Library of Congress
National library catalogue and digital collections.
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National Archives
Federal records of the United States.
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Society of American Archivists
Professional body for archivists.
Have a question about local history?
Whether you are tracing family genealogy or chasing a single fact, our staff can help. Book at least a week ahead so we can have the material ready.
Or call (530) 243-3720. Office at 1670 Market Street, open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm.