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Welcome to Local History !

The Bethlehem Area Public Library is a great place to learn more about the rich and diverse history of our city, region and people. BAPL's Local History pages provide convenient online access to historical content from a variety of sources. Genealogists, students, educators, and others, can get connected  to our online exhibitions and cataloged searchable reference.

Some Collection Highlights

The Semi-Centennial of South Bethlehem "Souvenir history" issued for South Bethlehem's October 3-5, 1915 semi-centennial celebration, offers a rare and interesting glimpse at the South Side of yesteryear. Don't miss it!

When looking for information about a local ancestor, be sure to check out our online Obituary / Biographical Article Indexes compiled from the pages of area newspapers published over the past 140 years. It's a great resource.

For detailed info on some of the non-circulating collections housed in the Bethlehem Room, take a look at our PDF finding aids, then stop by!

Do You Remember When?

Although change is inevitable, in this dynamic city established decades before the American Revolution, history and a sense of place transcend the challenges of daily life.

A great way to track change, for better or worse, is in the city maps, art and great old photos like this 1953 View of Broad Street. Be sure to take a good close look using our interactive zoom feature!