Genealogists and other students of local history can find answers to their questions on the shelves of the Vaden Stroud Memorial Research Room.  The library contains several hundred volumes and files pertaining to state and local history and culture, including birth, death and marriage records; Kansas Historical Quarterlies; area community histories; reference books on various antiques and collections, and much more.  The research room is open to the public during regular museum hours, and does not require staff assistance.  Photocopy service is generally available for materials in the library.

     Researchers of local history may also use the resources of the museum’s comprehensive archives.  The archives tell the story of Reno County’s past, through photographs, ledgers, maps, directories, yearbooks, advertising and various publications.  These primary source materials are available by appointment with our collections staff, during regular business hours, Monday through Friday.

     The museum’s permanent collection contains about 15,000 artifacts reflecting the county’s rich history since homesteading in 1872.  The collection includes agricultural tools and implements, artifacts from area businesses and industry, domestic items typical of the central Kansas household, and collections which show the development and evolution of our community through the last century.  Artifacts from this collection provide materials for most of the changing exhibits in the museum.   A temporary moratorium on new acquisitions for the permanent collection is now in effect, with occasional exceptions for specific items.

     With the aid of local volunteers, the museum’s Collections Department processes about 200 written, telephone, e-mail and walk-in research requests a year, in the order in which they arrive.  While there are no costs charged for this service, fees may apply for postage and document copies.  Donations, however, are gratefully accepted.  A research request may be submitted by contacting the museum during regular business hours.