New Mexico public libraries are showing strong engagement in local history and genealogy, according to a special section of the 2025 annual Public Library Survey (PLS). The survey, which is conducted by the Institute of Museums and Library Services and distributed each summer by the New Mexico State Library, asked libraries about their collections, staffing for history initiatives, and connections with local history organizations.
Out of 101 library systems surveyed, 93 reported having special history collections. Thirty libraries maintain genealogy collections, including a notable genealogy center at the Albuquerque Public Library. Additionally, 36 libraries subscribe to paid genealogy services; 21 use Ancestry.com and 15 have Heritage Quest subscriptions. Eight libraries utilize Family Search, a free database supported by the LDS church.
The survey also gathered qualitative data from library directors. Thirty-four respondents provided additional details about their local history or genealogy activities. These included collaborations with historical societies and museums, oral history projects, clubs, conferences, and digitization efforts for yearbooks and archives. Some directors identified themselves as experienced historians or genealogists; others indicated an interest in expanding these resources within their communities.
"A big thank you to all who responded to this voluntary survey which was written by the New Mexico Library Association Local and Regional History Special Interest Group (L&RH SIG). The SIG is planning to use the data to help libraries around the state learn from each other with continuing education and programming. For librarians interested in talking about history and genealogy initiatives, the L&RH SIG will be meeting for lunch on Thursday, October 23 at the upcoming NMLA Conference in Albuquerque."
For further information about these initiatives or available resources, interested individuals can contact Robin Sanchez (robin.sanchez@dca.nm.gov), chair of L&RH SIG, or Marcy Botwick (marcy.botwick@dca.nm.gov), Southwest Librarian at the New Mexico State Library. Researchers can also access guidance through the Genealogical Resources: Where to start? libguide.
