
The library has an extensive local history and genealogy collection. The collection includes periodicals, books, loose-leaf donated genealogies and microfilm. We also have Internet subscriptions to several internet databases that you may use on our on-site computers.
We will collect and take donations in the following areas: Sterling and its rural areas, cities of Sterling/Rock Falls and Whiteside County. The library does have some materials for counties that are near Whiteside County.

Betty J. Gray Genealogy & Local History Room
The Betty J. Gray Genealogy and Local History Room serves the community and library patrons in many ways from researching local history to helping patrons learn their family history. Betty J. Gray left a trust fund to help purchase materials for this department. Whiteside County Genealogists also contribute greatly as they house their research materials in the genealogy/local history department. Anyone is welcome to use these materials, but because of the fragile and historical nature of this collection, almost all materials in this room are for in-library use only.