Genealogy

We have an extensive collection of genealogy records for you to use at the Blackburn Central Library.  

Microfilm and microfiche
Many of our records are only available in microfilm or microfiche formats. We have five microfilm readers and seven microfiche readers. Demand is often heavy so we strongly advise advance booking.

Reader printer
The primary function of the reader printer is to make good quality copies from microfilm and microfiche. It will print both A3 and A4, which is a great advantage when printing copies from the large Census pages. Similarly it is also good for printing from broadsheet size newspapers, as more text will fit on one sheet.  There is a charge for this service.

Computers
Computers are available within the community history department. These can be used for accessing the Internet for sites relevant to local and family history, including Ancestry.library edition. 

Photocopying
We allow photocopying of family history material within normal photocopying limits. However we do reserve the right to refuse copying where an item could suffer damage. This is a particular problem with bound volumes and large size maps. 

For further information on any aspect of family history, please contact the Community history manager on (01254) 661221, or e-mail: community.history@blackburn.gov.uk

Census returns

Census returns are produced every 10 years and give information on everyone who was residing at every address on the night the Census was held.  These can be one of the most useful sources of information because they give ages, family relationships, birthplace and occupation.  As well as the 1901 census, we hold copies on microfilm for 1841, 1851, 1861, 1871, 1881 and 1891 for the Blackburn and Darwen area. 
 

In addition, the 1881 Census for the whole of England, Wales and Scotland is available on microfiche.  The 1891 and 1901 Census are also available on microfiche for Blackburn and Darwen.  A street index is available for all years.  We also have surname indexes for 1851, 1861 and 1891.  Pre-paid vouchers of £5 are on sale in the community history department for use with the 1901 Census.