Laois Local Studies was established to collect, preserve and make available for reference, material relating to the history and heritage of County Laois. It is home to the Laois Collection, a specialist collection on the local, social, political, economic and geographic history of the county.
The digitisation project is committed to converting materials from the collection into digital format including The Colonel James Fitzmaurice Collection that contains newspapers and other archive material relating to the first east-west transatlantic flight in April 1928. The collection belongs to Teddy Fennelly, well-known historian, aviation enthusiast and author of the book ‘Fitz and the Famous Flight.’
The project aims to make available online a selection of its resources. The project prioritises unique and popular collections to engage local, national and international visitors to the Local Studies website. High demand archival material is also being digitised to prevent deterioration and enhance access to remote users.
The Digital Archive includes material from private collections. Members of the public who feel they hold relevant material can arrange to have the material digitised and returned to them. This allows the material to be displayed online, providing access to the public without the obligation of outright donation.
A dedicated member of staff is available to assist and support members of the public with their research and queries. The collection and service are open to all by appointment. Laois Local Studies is part of the Laois County Library Service, funded and governed by Laois County Council. Further information at www. laoislocalstudies.ie and/or 057 8594985.