Genealogy & Local History Resources
Tracing your family history can be a rewarding experience. The library provides several resources that can help you on your quest to discover your ancestry. Below are links to digital resources that can help you in your search.
In addition to online resources, the library has a dedicated Maryland Collection, housed at our Chestertown Branch, that is full of information about local history.
AncestryLibrary
Census records, vital records, directories, and other genealogy resources. You must be on-site at a KCPL location to access this resource.
Chesapeake Heartland Digital Archive
Chesapeake Heartland is an innovative and interactive public archive that aims to digitize, interpret, and make accessible materials related to African American history and culture in Kent County, Maryland and beyond. It is a collaboration between the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture, Washington College, Sumner Hall, Kent Cultural Alliance, and Kent County Public Library.
Genealogy Connect
Hundreds of unique family history sources, as well as guidance and tips on the research process.
Heritage Quest
Census records, Freedman's Bank records, unique primary sources, local & family histories, and more.
You may also consider these other resources available in Kent County and throughout Maryland:
The Historical Society of Kent County
Washington College Miller Library
Upper Shore Genealogical Society of Maryland
Edward H. Nabb Research Center for Delmarva History and Culture (Salisbury University)
Maryland State Archives Special Collections - Online Digitized Newspapers