Research Guidelines
- The Bryant Library Local History Collection is a public resource for all researchers interested in the history of Roslyn, New York and its surrounding area.
- Research using analog collections must be conducted onsite in the Bryant Room under staff supervision.
- All reproductions must be made with the permission and assistance of the Archivist.
Library Publications
Historic Newspapers
Searchable copies of the earliest issues of The Roslyn News and its predecessor, The Roslyn Tablet, covering the years 1876-1903, are available on the New York State Historic Newspapers website.
Later issues of The Roslyn News are available on microfilm in the Local History Collection.
Roslyn Landmark Society
Established in 1961, The Roslyn Landmark Society is dedicated to preserving Roslyn’s historical buildings.
​Friends of Cedarmere
The Friends of Cedarmere is a volunteer, non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of William Cullen Bryant and his beloved Roslyn Harbor estate.
The Christopher Morley Knothole Association
The Christopher Morley Knothole Association was formed in 1961 to preserve the writing studio and literary legacy of the famed Roslyn Estates author.
NY Heritage Roslyn Postcards Digital Collection
The collection consists of over 300 historic postcards of Roslyn depicting its inhabitants, businesses, places of worship, various buildings, and natural features.
Preservation Long Island
Founded in 1948, Preservation Long Island is a 501c3 not-for-profit organization committed to working with Long Islanders to preserve the cultural heritage of our region.
LILRC Archival Services
The Long Island Library Resource Council provides archival consultation services, training, and technical support to organizations participating with the NY Heritage Digital Collections and NYS Historic Newspaper websites.
Nassau Country Museum of Art
Centered on the former Bryce/Frick Estate of Roslyn Harbor, the Nassau County Museum of Art became a private not-for-profit institution, governed and funded by its own board of trustees in 1989.
Long Island Historical Societies
Long Island Historical Societies was founded in 1969 in order to unite the many local historical societies in each village and town of Long Island.
Documentary Heritage & Preservation Services for New York
DHPSNY is a statewide program that provides free planning and education services to support the vast network of New York State collecting institutions such as archives, libraries, historical societies, and museums.
The National Register of Historic Places
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation.
Society of American Archivists
Founded in 1936, the Society of American Archivists is North America’s oldest and largest national professional association dedicated to the needs and interests of archives and archivists.
Northeast Document Conservation Center
Founded in 1973, the Northeast Document Conservation Center was the first independent conservation laboratory in the United States to specialize exclusively in the conservation and preservation of paper and film-based collections.
American Association for State and Local History
The American Association for State and Local History is a national membership association dedicated to helping the history community thrive.
What is the Local History Collection? ​
The Bryant Library Local History Collection is an outstanding resource for information on the history and heritage of the greater Roslyn, NY area, including Roslyn Village, Roslyn Heights and the incorporated villages of East Hills, Flower Hill, Greenvale, Roslyn Estates and Roslyn Harbor. ​
Who started the Collection and when? ​
The collection began in 1953 when the Trustees of the Roslyn Grist Mill decided that the small collection of documents that had been stored among the artifacts on display at the Roslyn Mill Tea House would be safer and more available to the public if they were housed in the Bryant Library. ​ ​
Where is it kept? ​
The Local History Collection is housed in the Bryant Room, which is located on the upper level of the Library. ​ ​
How can I reach the Bryant Room? ​
The Bryant Room is accessed by a staircase located to the right of the Reference Desk. Please speak to a Reference Librarian if you prefer to use the elevator. ​
What can I find in the Collection? ​
In addition to reference books on a wide range of subjects, the Local History Collection contains 19th and 20th century maps and atlases, photographs, postcards, original manuscripts, scrapbooks, and ephemera. ​ ​
Is the Collection open to the public? ​
As a part of The Bryant Library, the Collection is a public resource. ​ ​
Do I need an appointment?
While research appointments are preferred, the Bryant Room is open Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 4 PM and the first Saturday of each month from 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM. ​
How can I make an appointment? ​
Appointments can be made by filling out our contact form, emailing us directly at [email protected] or calling 516-621-2240 ext. 260. ​
Do I need a library card to use the Collection? ​
A library card is not required for researchers interested in the Collection. ​ ​
Can I read my book in The Bryant Room?
The Bryant Room is strictly for the use of local history researchers. ​ ​
Can I eat my lunch in The Bryant Room? ​
Patrons are not permitted to bring food or beverages into the Bryant Room.
Who works in the Collection? ​
Archivist Carol Clarke and Digital Curator Ariel Morabito look forward to helping you learn about Roslyn’s rich history. ​ ​
