Digital Public Library of America

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I have found a new "favorite" place for researching--the Digital Public Library of America Digital Public Library of America (dp.la).  It isn't a new place, its charter was established in 2012, but it is new to me and I am enjoying the different ways to explore the information available.


"The Digital Public Library of America amplifies the value of libraries and cultural organizations as Americans’ most trusted sources of shared knowledge. We do this by collaborating with partners to accelerate innovative tools and ideas that empower and equip libraries to make information more accessible.

"We work with a national network of partners to:

  • Make millions of materials from libraries, archives, museums, and other cultural institutions across the country available to all in a one-stop discovery experience.
  • Provide a library-controlled marketplace and platform for libraries to purchase, organize, and deliver ebooks and other e-content to their patrons.
  • Convene library leaders and practitioners to explore and advance technologies that serve, inform, and empower their communities."[1]

The Search box is prominent and entering a single person's name produces results from collections in different repositories. I searched for Jonah Stow, my Revolutionary War ancestor. I was offered military records which I have found in other places, including microfilm at NARA. But I was surprised to find this from the papers of Timothy Darling.


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I also made successful searches by using a name and location, i.e. Burnham, New Hampshire.  Searching for a location name is also fruitful.  

But, DPLA has other features to access information. On the menu bar are "Exhibitions" and "Primary Source Sets," collections on various topics that give us background at the touch of a button. These collections give an overview written by educators and original documents and newspaper clippings about the topic. There are also teaching guides that complete the topics.  What a wealth of information! 

For genealogy and family history researchers, context is everything! and the DPLA offers us context about places, people, topics, history, trends and so much more that we need to do excellent research.




Listed below are just a smattering of topics in both the Exhibitions and Primary Source Sets.  Be sure to browse both sets.




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Essentially, a search at this site gives you access to dozens of libraries and their collections without leaving the comfort of your own desk chair. I am really looking forward to exploring much more of this resource and I hope that this brief introduction entices you to do the same.


[1] Digital Public Library of America, Digital Public Library of America (dp.la)


MaryLynn Strickland    



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