Clayton Library will accept requests by mail for copies of materials only when an exact citation is provided. Depending on the type of materials requested, your query may be forwarded to one of several locations within the Houston Public Library system. Your citation must be exact enough to enable library staff to locate the reference in a reasonable time.
Photocopies are $1.00 per citation plus $1.00 per page. Microprint copies are $2.00 per citation plus $1.00 per page. You must send exact citations and advance payment to Clayton Library. Checks and money orders are accepted and should be made out to "Houston Library Board."
Clayton Library staff is trained to offer research strategies and assist the researcher in locating materials which will aid in their research. We are unable to perform in-depth research for patrons. Requests that would involve extensive searches through a variety of sources are considered in-depth research. Clayton's usual practice with requests for in-depth research is to send a list of private researchers with whom you can contract for services. The presence of a name on this list does not constitute an endorsement by Clayton Library. For a copy of the list, send a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) to Clayton Library.
Mail inquiries should be sent to the following address:
Houston Public Library, Clayton Library Center for Genealogical Research, 5300 Caroline Street, Houston, TX 77004-6896
You can also contact us via email through the Email Reference service through HPL's Ask a Librarian service. Be sure to direct your query to Clayton Library.
Houston newspapers on microfilm are housed in the Houston Public Library's Central Library building. Requests for obituaries should therefore be directed to:
Houston Public Library, Bibliographic Information Center, 500 McKinney Street, Houston, TX 77002-2534.
You must provide an exact death date; the staff will then check the papers for three days after that date for an obituary. Obituary look-ups can also be requested via email through the Email Reference service through HPL's Ask a Librarian service. HPL staff will look for the obituary and notify you via email if it was found and the cost and method for obtaining a copy of the obituary. Again please provide the exact death date for the look-up.