Research Databases
America’s News
News and information from reliable news sources spanning the U.S., including The Jessamine Journal (2005-current issue) and Lexington Herald-Leader (1983-current issue). To log in from home, enter your library card number as your password.
Help: Watch the America’s News tutorial on Niche Academy.
Ancestry Library Edition
A large genealogy database that includes census information, vital statistics, and historic records. Only available to patrons inside the library building.
Help: Watch the Ancestry Library Edition tutorial on Niche Academy.
Black Life in America
Comprehensive coverage of the African American experience from the early 18th century to the present day. Sources include the Lexington Herald-Leader (1983-current issue), and The Jessamine Journal (2005-current issue).
To log in from home, enter your library card number as your password.
Help: Watch the Black Life in America tutorial on Niche Academy.
Fold3 Library Edition
Provides convenient access to US military records, including the stories, photos, and personal documents of the men and women who served. To log in from home, enter your library card number and PIN.
Help: Watch the Fold3 Library Edition tutorial on Niche Academy.
Heritage Hub
Explore your family history with the premier collection of U.S. obituaries and death notices for in-depth genealogical research from 1704 – today. HeritageHub helps you identify relatives and uncover new information.
To log in from home, enter your library card number as your password.
Help: Watch the Heritage Hub tutorial on Niche Academy.
Jessamine Journal Obituary Index
Search the obituary index for the publication dates of obituaries that appeared in The Jessamine Journal from 1887 to 2015. Once you know the publication date, you can look up the obituary on microfilm (1887-2005) or on Newsbank (2005-present).
Stop by the Ask a Librarian Desk to search our microfilm collection. Or request a copy of an obituary.
Explore Local History
Jessamine History Walks Podcast
Take a walk through Jessamine County history on these self-guided audio tours from the Jessamine County Public Library.
Pandemic Stories Project
A community storytelling project reflecting the experiences of Jessamine County residents during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Books
Cemetery Records
Microfilm
- Kentucky Gazette, 1787-1841
- The Jessamine Journal and Nicholasville News, 1887-2005
- Census (Jessamine County, 1810-1930)
- Tax rolls, court order books, etc.
Online Genealogy Classes
Learn how to research your family history with these free online classes!
Discovering Your Roots: An Introduction to Genealogy
Available through The Great Courses Library Collection. To get started, sign up to Kanopy with your library card.
Genealogy 101
Available through Universal Class. Register to get started, then search for Genealogy 101.