The Mary-Lou Griffin Local History Room 

 

Dedication to the Preservation of Local History

Mary-Lou Griffin dedicated much of her life to the well-being of the Richmond Hill Public Library. A Library Board Member for some 18 years, Mary-Lou was an inveterate photographer, an expeditious genealogist, and a tireless promoter of the services and programs of the Library. Remembered by her friends and colleagues for her resolute will, quick mind, keen sense of humour and direct style of conversation, Mary-Lou kindly assisted a number of persons in creating their own family histories.

Many of the resources in the room that now bears her name were either created or made machine readable by her during countless hours at the computer in her home. Though severely disabled by arthritis in her later years, Mary-Lou remained steadfast and resolute in her commitment to her Library, to her friends and to the history of the Richmond Hill area. She was an inspiration to all who knew her. 

A Treasure Trove of Materials

The Mary-Lou Griffin Local History Room is located on the 4th Floor of Central Branch. It contains an extensive collection of historically significant and unique resources about Richmond Hill, York Region, and beyond.

Room Access

The room is available during regular Library hours with the exception of Sundays. To access the room, researchers must obtain an access fob from the 3rd Floor Information Desk with valid identification. The room is intended solely for those using the collections. Materials may not be removed from the room. Note that food or drink is not permitted.

Services and Equipment

 

Research Assistance

Our Local History/Genealogy Librarian will be pleased to provide assistance and a room orientation upon request. Please call at (905) 884-9928, ext. 5068 or email us to book an appointment. 

Printing and Scanning

The room is equipped with a full service photocopier/scanner and print release station. Printing and photocopying in black and white is available for $0.15 per page and in colour for $0.40 per page. You must purchase a print services card for $1.00 from the Information Desk on the 1st floor or the vending machine on the 3rd floor of the Library. The card may be loaded and reloaded with funds as required.

Microfilm/Microfiche/Slide Scanner

The room also contains a combination microfilm, microfiche and slide scanner that enables you to save images to a USB drive, sent directly to email or printed using a print services card (see above). USB drives are available for sale at the Information Desk.

Public Access Computers

The room contains two public access computers providing access to the Internet and our online digital resources. These computers have access to the print release station.