Local History

The Local History Collection of the Sanibel Public Library exists to provide patrons with information of local interest and to share Sanibel's heritage with the community. Our goals are to collect, preserve, and make available materials which document Sanibel's environment, the historical development of Sanibel's people, groups, organizations and institutions. The collection covers most aspects of Sanibel's development to the present day.

Sanibel Public Library concentrates on collecting information pertaining to Sanibel residents, prominent individuals, issues of community interest and records of community and civic organizations. The Local History Collection contains books about Sanibel as well as books by Sanibel residents.

The collection is located in the Sanibel Public Library Archives/Conference Room. In addition to primary source material and private papers, there are books, newspapers, pamphlets, maps, city directories and oral histories.

While the materials do not circulate, items may be used in the Library. Most items may be photocopied upon request. Microfilm of local newspapers is also available for public use.