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Newspapers
Our libraries hold many local
newspapers, some from as early as the eighteenth century; their frequency varies
but the newspapers are normally published on a weekly or twice weekly basis.
Holdings of newspapers are now largely on microfilm, often dating back to the
first edition of a newspaper. Microfilm reading machines in libraries are heavily
used and in many libraries a booking system is in operation. If hard copies
only are available, customers may need to give the library notice, particularly
if these copies are stored away from the main library building.
Newspapers are a valuable source of information for local news items, official announcements, editorial comment, features, court cases, birth, marriage and death announcements, and advertisements; all of which are of local interest and importance. In some cases, newspapers are the only source for various types of local details. Sometimes the content of newspapers may vary from edition to edition.
News cuttings are made in most libraries. These provide a quick source of current information and, as the file accumulates, also provide a valuable source of historical information.
The British Library Newspaper Library, Colindale Ave., London, NW9 5HE (known as 'Colindale' library) has lengthy holdings of most local and national newspapers. An enquiry service is available. The Museums, Libraries and Archives North West has a database of north west newspapers on their website.
For newspaper holdings in our Lancashire libraries, please see the 'Guide to Lancashire Local Studies and Family History Collections (Section 11).
Indexes to newspaper reports for several areas of Lancashire can be found online as part of Lancashire Lantern.