Oakland History Center Services
Assistance by mail
Reference librarians in the Oakland History Center are able to provide limited research by mail, including the retrieval of birth and death certificates issued from 1876-1904. For Oakland birth and death certificates, please send your request, including:
- the date of death and the person's name
- a self-addressed stamped envelope
to the Oakland History Center, Oakland Public Library, 125 14th Street, Oakland, CA 94612-4319.
Each search is limited to about 1/2 hour of staff time and 10 photocopied pages.
For copies of obituaries or death notices, please contact the Magazine & Newspaper Room at (510) 238-3176 for information.
Assistance by e-mail
Questions related to Oakland's history are eagerly accepted at ohc@oaklandlibrary.org.
Each search is limited to about 1/2 hour of staff time and 10 photocopied pages.
Assistance by telephone
An Oakland History Center librarian is available for telephone consultation whenever the Main Library is open. Call us at (510) 238-3222.
Photo reproduction services
The Oakland History Center maintains an extensive collection of historic photographs of Oakland and the East Bay. Patrons can order digital or print copies of most of the images for a nominal fee. Contact the Oakland History Center staff for assistance.
Make an Appointment to Visit.
Appointments are recommended, but not required. To schedule an appointment, please visit our online scheduler, opens a new window (requires an email address) or call (510) 238-3134.
Oakland History Center
Main Library, Second Floor
125 14th Street, Oakland
Hours:
Monday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Tuesday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Wednesday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Thursday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday: 12 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
