The College of William and Mary's main library is named for librarian and Virginia historian Earl Gregg Swem. Swem Library has a strong collection in local, family (primarily Southern), and Virginia history through the nineteenth century which many genealogists have found useful for their research.
This is primarily a guide to the Virginiana collections in the library, with several sections on other materials of interest to genealogists. The emphasis is on published records of the colonial era, including records for what is now West Virginia and Kentucky. Not covered in this bibliography are general histories of places, families, or events, although many exist in the library's collection.
For family research outside Virginia, the library's Massachusetts collection – especially its collection of vital records – is particularly notable. A subject search in our online catalog under the heading Register of births etc. Massachusetts will display them all. Swem Library is also acquiring the Barbour Collection of Connecticut Vital Records as they are published. For genealogical sources for other areas of the country, check our online catalog.
While the staff at Swem Library welcomes visitors, researchers should note that many of the publications listed on this site are available in libraries all over the country.
Other Resources and Information for Visitors:
