Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives (KDLA)

Overview

The Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives (KDLA) combines library, archival, and public records programs for the Commonwealth of Kentucky. It is one of ten state agencies in the United States that combine all three functions.

History

KDLA dates its origin to 1825, when the Kentucky State Library was established by the Kentucky General Assembly to serve state government in Frankfort. (Some sources date the state library's origin to 1809, prior to an 1824 fire that destroyed the original collection.)

Collections, Holdings, and Publications

KDLA is the central repository for original city, county, and state-level government records of Kentucky. It also operates the Kentucky Talking Book Library (KTBL), part of the national network administered by the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, in operation since 1968. Digitized state records are available through the Kentucky State Digital Archives (KSDA).

Access and Usage

KDLA is located at 300 Coffee Tree Road, Frankfort, Kentucky, and responds to genealogical and records requests by mail or through forms on its website.