The Petersburg Public Library
The Petersburg Public Library digitizes Historic Petersburg newspapers from 1913 – 2021 to give the local community easier access to Petersburg’s history.
The Petersburg Public Library offers free access to its extensive collection of historical newspapers and documents through a partnership with Advantage Archives. The archives encompass over 45,317 pages of the Petersburg Pilot (1974-2021), along with several other historical newspapers and documents. The collection spans from 1913 to 2021, providing a rich resource for anyone interested in local history and genealogy. Special grants and generous donations have made the digitization of these records possible, ensuring free and open access to the community.
About The Petersburg Public Library
The Petersburg Public Library, located in Petersburg, Alaska, serves as a vital resource for knowledge, learning, and community engagement. Established in 1931, the library has evolved from a small bookshelf under the auspices of the American Legion Auxiliary into a thriving space at the center of public life. The library’s mission is to connect the community to the world of ideas.
The History Of The Petersburg Public Library
The Petersburg Public Library has a long and vibrant history. Founded in 1931, the library started as a small bookshelf managed by the American Legion Auxiliary. Over the years, it has grown to become a central hub for the community. In 2013, the library moved into a new 10,000-square-foot facility, significantly expanding its services and resources. Today, the library offers public meeting rooms, free computers and Wi-Fi, test proctoring, passport services, and exhibit spaces for local art and collections. The collection includes over 40,000 items, and the knowledgeable staff is always available to help with any questions.
Explore The Community History Archive Of The Petersburg Public Library
Petersburg, located on Mitkof Island in Alaska, is known for its rich maritime history and vibrant cultural heritage. The town was founded by Norwegian settlers and has maintained its Scandinavian influences, which are evident in local traditions and festivals. Visitors can explore the Clausen Memorial Museum, which showcases the history and culture of Petersburg, or enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding areas, including the LeConte Glacier. Petersburg’s strong sense of community and commitment to preserving its history make it a unique and welcoming place to live and visit.
Did You Know?
Did you know that Petersburg, Alaska, is often called “Little Norway” due to its strong Scandinavian heritage? Another interesting fact is that the town was founded by Norwegian immigrant Peter Buschmann in the late 19th century. The Petersburg Public Library plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the town’s history, including maintaining archives of local newspapers that date back to 1913. Additionally, the library’s 10,000 square foot facility, opened in 2013, includes spaces for local art and collections, reflecting the community’s commitment to cultural enrichment and lifelong learning.
Advantage partners with communities, just like Moline across the United States, to archive & provide practical digital access to local historical content in print, that would otherwise be lost to the erosion of time.
If you would like to see more local history online, please contact your local library, newspaper publisher, genealogical society, historical society, or educational institution, and encourage them to learn more about creating a Community History Archive like the one Petersburg has created for its community. Ask them to e-mail us using the form below, or have them contact us at (855) 303-2727.
