Local Studies and Maritime Library

The Local Studies and Maritime Library houses the local history, maritime and family history collections of Southampton. It provides information on all aspects on the history of Southampton and Hampshire, including books, periodicals, newspapers, directories, maps and illustrations and works closely with Southampton Archives.

You can use our collection of ship registers, maritime journals and books to discover the histories of ships and shipping lines or discover your family history using census records, street directories and parish registers. Documents and books in the local history collection are for reference only.

Ample study space is available with trained staff on hand to help with your enquiries.

Opening times

Monday: 10am to 5pm
Tuesday: 10am to 4.30pm and 4.30pm to 7pm (appointments only)
Wednesday: 10am to 5pm
Thursday: 10am to 5pm
Friday: 10am to 5pm
Saturday: Appointments only
Sunday: Closed

Please note our libraries are closed on public holidays.