Saratoga Library Unlocks Free Genealogy, History Archives | The Locally Times
Residents can access U.S. census records from 1790 and obituary collections from 1704 at no cost through the library's digital archives.
## Library Offers Sponsored Digital History Tools The Saratoga Springs Public Library is offering residents free access to digital resources for genealogy and local history research. The library's site claims these databases contain resources that often surpass what can be found through a standard web search. Librarians are also available to assist patrons with the research tools. The database provides access to historical documents for genealogical research, including the complete U.S. Census from 1790 to 1930, New York Passenger lists from 1851 to 1891, World War I Draft Registration Cards from 1917-1918, and Civil War Service Records. The collection also includes international parish and probate documents from England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland. ## Remote Research with a Library Card Residents can access two key databases from home using their Saratoga Springs Public Library card. "HeritageHub" provides a collection of U.S. obituaries and death notices from all 50 states, dating from 1704 to the present. According to the library's resource page, the tool is designed to help users identify relatives and uncover family information. A second tool, "HeritageQuest," allows for remote exploration of every extant U.S. federal census, family and local histories, and other primary sources like banking and military records. By sponsoring these tools, the library allows residents to bypass the individual subscription fees often required for direct access to these databases. This provides a cost-free opportunity for patrons to connect with their personal and local history.