Reference resources
If you're a student or are doing some independent research, these reference tools can help you find what you need.
Britannica online
As a library member, you can access the adult, junior or student edition of Britannica Online for free.
Oxford reference
Browse a range of Oxford's reference titles at your fingertips including the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography.
Oxford dictionaries
Access digital versions of Oxford's English language dictionary, thesaurus and usage guides.
BFI replay
BFI replay is a free archive of videos and TV programmes from the BFI National Archive. (Please note: this can only be accessed in the library.)
Browse resources in our catalogue
Browse allHistorical collections
Dive into the past with our range of historical archives and ancestry tools.
Ancestry
Dudley library members can access the UK's largest family history site for free. (Please note: this can only be accessed in the library.)
Find My Past
On this site, all library members can access records, including UK BMDs, Maritime BMDs, Merchant Navy Records, England & Wales censuses.
John Johnson Collection
This collection gives you online access to thousands of pictures and prints about daily life in Britain over the last 300 years.
Whos' Who and Who Was Who
This website is home to thousands of biographies on significant British people past and present since 1897.
Browse resources in our catalogue
Browse allWhat our members say
"Exploring my family history has never been this seamless and fascinating. The library's access to premium genealogy resources has allowed me to uncover hidden stories and connect with my roots."
Eva Jobbs
Library member
Eva Jobbs
Library member
"Hats off to our amazing local library for the goldmine of resources on local and family history! Our library is a true treasure trove for anyone exploring their history- couldn't be more grateful!"
Rachel Ebbs
Library member
Rachel Ebbs
Library member
Newspaper archives
Whether you're studying or researching a topic you're interested in, find what you need with these digital newspaper records.
British Newspaper Archive
Explore over 200 years of history with these digital records. Only available free in the library when using one our public computers.
Newsbank
This searchable news database gives access to The Times and Telegraph as well as local and regional newspapers and special reports.
Pressreader
With this online tool, library members can get instant access to over 4000 newspapers from 100 countries in 60 languages.
The Times Digital Archive 1785 - 2013
The Times of London is widely considered to be the world's 'newspaper of record'. The Times Digital Archive allows users to search over 200 years of this invaluable historical source. Type your library card number to log on; eg 5319009
