The New Jersey Room is a collection of materials about New Jersey with an emphasis upon Jersey City and Hudson County. The collection includes both current and historical information and numbers about 20,000 volumes. In addition to books, the New Jersey Room has a complete collection of all published Jersey City/Hoboken city directories dating from 1849 to 1925; an index for the Jersey Journal for the years 1912-1954 and 1969 to the present a picture collection of over 13,000 images, hundreds of historic and contemporary maps; over 150 periodicals; and files of articles and pam-Phlets. While the New Jersey Room is the main resource of information on the history of Jersey City, many of our patrons come in search of information on local real estate, development, and business information. These collections are continually growing, as the economic climate of the city is constantly changing. The historic collection includes most books published in or about Jersey City, plus privately compiled volumes such as church histories.

We have many books on other towns in Hudson County and throughout the state. The newspaper index and the city directories help those researching their family histories. The department recently began preserving its rare map collection, which includes maps of the area dating to the early 18th century. Later maps and atlases are helpful in determining the age of houses in the city. Please note that while everyone is welcome to use materials in the New Jersey Room, none of the materials can Be checked out. Most materials, except for rare and fragile items may be photocopied. Photos may be reproduced through the use of our camera stand; however, you must provide your own camera. The NJ Room staffcan answer questions submitted by mail, phone, or email that inquire about holdings of the library. A quick lookup, requiring only a few moments, can be accommodated free of charge.

Such questions as “Is Mr. XYZ listed in the 1918 city directory?” or “Where is PS # 14 located?” are the types that would fit in this category. If, however, your research requires a more in-depth investigation or the use of microfilm, and you cannot perform the research yourself, the NJ Room Staffcan conduct the research for you. There will be a fee for such service.