about.htm

Mission Statement of the Alexandria
Historical & Genealogical Library

The building housing the Alexandria Historical and Genealogical Library started life as the Alexandria Public Library in 1907. Area businessman S.S. Bryan matched a $10,000.00 grant from Pittsburgh philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. The funds were given for a free public library with the stipulation that the City provide a site and maintenance forever.

The building was constructed solely for the advancement of culture and learning. It was designed by the architectural firm of Crosby & Henkel of New Orleans, and built by Caldwell Brothers.

The Alexandria City Council in 1971 adopted a resolution designating the building as the Alexandria Historical and Genealogical Library and Museum.

Remodeled in the 1970s and again in 2003, it now houses (upstairs) one of the largest genealogical libraries in the state. The Beaux Arts style building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.

To promote interest and participation, exchange information and create an environment for researching genealogical and historical materials.

To provide help and educational aid to researchers, through workshops, lectures and presentations, preserve records, and disseminate information. To teach patrons how to use the reference materials, resources, and Internet to restore and preserve their own genealogical materials and family lineages.

To support the genealogical collections and services of the Alexandria Historical and Genealogical Library by acquiring materials and publications which are of genealogical value for the use of patrons (books, periodicals, tracts, pamphlets), and any other ways and means of genealogy collection (newspapers, books on family histories and genealogy, etc.).

To preserve the heritage, history and genealogy of the families who settled in this area, and other parishes or counties relative to our quest.