Research Self-Help

We know that many researchers either cannot visit in person or prefer remote services. The following list of self-help resources may help you prepare for an appointment or conduct your research from a distance.

Birth certificates

Death certificates

Marriage records

Naturalization records

State institutional records (prison, orphanage, state hospital)

Legislative research

Courts (including divorces, criminal cases, civil cases, probate)

Newspaper articles & obituaries

Images, audio, or film

Donating to MNHS collections

Access to & copies of specific folders, items, books, or articles

Updates (including info on library services & reopening plans)

Other questions

If your question is not addressed above and you would like help from library staff, please contact us via email or phone. We always have a high volume of reference and research inquiries, so please communicate any deadlines or legal/emergency needs.