Special Collections
Discover resources that preserve the stories of Wyoming, the West, and our community.
The Laramie County Library’s Special Collections preserve and share materials that document our community, our state, and the history of the American West.
Located on the north end of the third floor in the Cheyenne Library, the Special Collections Room is open during regular library hours. Staff at the Ask Here desk are available to assist with research and access.
The collections include resources on genealogy, Wyoming history, Western exploration, and local research materials unique to our library. While items in Special Collections do not circulate, photocopying options are available, and in some cases, a circulating copy may be provided.
the leclercq jones collection
Wyoming native and historian LeClercq Jones donated an extensive research collection on Cheyenne’s architecture and cultural history. Through hundreds of detailed photographs and drawings, he captured the evolution of the city’s buildings and streetscapes.
Copies are available for in-library use, and original binders may be accessed by appointment with the Special Collections Librarian.
wyoming history collection
This collection focuses on the history of Cheyenne, Laramie County, and Wyoming. Materials include local yearbooks, city directories, brand books, community histories, and a complete run of the Annals of Wyoming history journal.
Items can be found in the catalog under call numbers beginning with WYO REF.
western history collection
Established through a generous $25,000 gift from an anonymous donor, this collection highlights the people, places, and events that shaped the American West.
Materials can be found in the catalog under call numbers beginning with WH REF.
Government Documents
Located just outside and to the left of the Special Collections Room, this collection includes publications from city, county, state, and other government entities. Topics include law, planning, budgets, environmental studies, and statistics.
Staff at the Ask Here desk can assist in locating and using these materials.
genealogy Collection
This collection offers a wealth of resources to help you trace your family history. With more than 20,000 books and microforms, you’ll find materials covering the United States and other countries, including military records, passenger and immigration lists, family histories, genealogy journals, and much more.
Special collections reading room
Located within the Special Collections Room, the Reading Room offers a quiet space that blends history and artistry. Notable features include an ornate Federal Courthouse door frame, two tables from the original Carnegie Library, and stained glass artwork by Nancy Furnish.
Collections housed here focus on Western history and are available for in-library use during regular hours.
trails collection
Developed through the generosity of Ronald W. and Linda G. Sandefer, the Trails Collection explores the great overland trails of the West—including the Oregon, Santa Fe, California, and Mormon Trails—and the Lewis & Clark Expedition.
Titles in this collection can be found in the catalog under TRAILS REF.