Library Resources Derbyshire’s main Local Studies Library is kept in the magnificent old Smedley’s Hydropathic hotel at Matlock. Visitors once flocked here from all over the world in search of medical treatment. They still come here today but now it is to find out about their family roots in the Peak or to discover more about this fascinating area. Here you can find all kinds of information about the county, and even further afield. There are books, journals, directories, maps, newspapers, illustrations and various materials on microfilm. Derbyshire census returns 1841 - 1901. Ordnance survey maps at various dates and scales for the whole county. A fine collection of books and journals about the area, old and new. A good general reference library of historical and family history books. Many local newspapers from the 1720s to the present day. The Wolley Manuscripts from the British Library on microfilm, with a detailed index. Extensive subject, place and personal name indexes to the collections. Trained staff on hand to show you how to make best use of the service. The Local Studies Library is open to all, you don't need a reader's ticket, but it is essential to make an appointment if you need to use any microfilmed materials. The library is open 9am - 5pm Monday - Friday and occasional evenings or Saturday mornings by appointment. There is no charge for using the collections or equipment. Copying facilities and internet access are available. The current charges are: Photocopies and computer printout 10p. Microform copies 45p. If you are unable to visit the library yourself, postal, fax and telephone and email enquiries are welcome. A few can be answered free of charge. Queries answered by sending copies of material are charged from £3.00. (Most can be answered for £5.00.) Chargeable research services are also available. This includes family history research for a fee of £8.50 per half hour. Cheques should be made payable to Derbyshire County Council. Payment by credit card (Visa and Mastercard) is acceptable but card details should not be sent by email. Please contact us if you would like more information: Local Studies Library, Derbyshire Libraries & Heritage Dept. County Hall, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 3AG. Tel 01629 585579 Fax 01629 585049 Email: localstudies@derbyshire.gov.uk Want know more? A taste of the Local Resources for the Peak is found here on Peakland Heritage Books. The main Derbyshire Library catalogue is a good source for books to borrow but many older local history books available for home reading are not yet shown on the catalogue. Other Derbyshire Libraries have Local Studies collections for their area too.