Explore the history of Elizabeth, Union County, and New Jersey through our collections of microfilm, yearbooks, maps, digital databases, and curated external resources.
Search Our Online CatalogThe library holds back issues of several newspapers, census records, and city directories on microfilm. Two reader/printers are available during all library hours — no appointment needed. Please ask staff for assistance.
Newspapers
Census Records
- NJ State Census 1855–1915
- US Census of New Jersey 1830–1910
City Directories
- Elizabeth City Directory 1865–1971
Find residents complete with addresses, places of employment, and occasional dates of death.
A fully searchable index covering 1915–1991, organized by State of NJ, County of Union, and City of Elizabeth. Subject headings include accidents, buildings, crime, fires, schools, and more. Produced and maintained by EPL librarians — a research tool and historic artifact in its own right.
Newspaper clippings, pamphlets, postcards, and photographs covering the history of Elizabeth, Union County, and New Jersey from the mid-1800s through 2000. Available in the Local History Room during open hours or by appointment.
Yearbooks with some year gaps for Battin (1927–1974), Thomas Jefferson (1934–1972), Edison (1966–1987), Elizabeth High School (1980–2004), and St. Mary's of the Assumption (1943–2019). Currently cataloging collections from St. Genevieve's, Benedictine Academy, and others.
We welcome yearbook donations — contact us at (908) 354-6060 x7220.
Our collection contains the 1922–23 and 1951–58 editions of the Elizabeth City Sanborn Fire Insurance maps.