The Local History Research Collection contains documents that are primarily on or about the borough of Brooklyn.  These records begin in the 1600s and continue through the 1900s.  

The collection is divided mainly into two groupings; miscellaneous subject files and oversized files.  Particularly noteworthy are papers and items dealing with assorted organizations and the different Brooklyn neighborhoods.

The miscellaneous subject files are comprised of an assortment of topics; there are items on Brooklyn’s amusement parks including Coney Island and its original creators; the historic Brooklyn Navy Yard; early Brooklyn banks (such as the Brevoort Savings Bank, Seaman’s Bank and the Williamsburg Savings Bank); cemeteries in the borough; neighborhoods including Gravesend, New Lots, Flatbush, and Flatlands; famous Brooklyn personalities; playgrounds; sports; theaters; wars (including the American Revolutionary War and Civil War); and other records.

The oversized grouping contains materials similar to those listed in the subject files but did not fit into standard archival boxes.  There are items on different Brooklyn neighborhoods; maps relative to these locales; oversize newspaper clippings on World War II; education; railroad blueprints; subway maps; miscellaneous items; etc.