Research Databases

Search records, books, serials, and other historical records specific to African Americans to trace your genealogy or to do research.

You must be in the library to use this resource.  Trace your genealogy using historical records. U. S. Census records; military records; court, land and probate records; vital and church records; directories; petitions for naturalization; passenger lists and more.

Historic digital collections from libraries, museums, and archives across Ohio and more. The DPLA portal to photographs, maps, documents, and AV materials from across the country is a great starting place for your local history and genealogy reference.

A premier collection of historical U.S. military records that brings to life the details of America's military veterans with stories, photos, and personal documents.

Search census records, books, serials, and other historical records to trace your genealogy.  You must be in the library to access this database.

An index to over 3,700,000 obituaries, death & marriage notices & other sources from Ohio from the 1810s to the present day. Actual obits may be ordered from over 65 partner libraries; only Hayes Library has online ordering.

Find large scale street plans produced by the Sanborn Fire Insurance company from 1867 to 1970. Locate and identify buildings and neighborhoods. Study the growth of towns and cities, and the impact of new development

Identify flint artifacts and learn about Ohio's prehistoric peoples.