Genealogy at CALS Roberts Library

Your Journey Starts Here

Whether you have been on your family history journey for years or are just beginning, the CALS Butler Center at the Roberts Library offers resources for genealogists and researchers at all skill levels. We have access to many digital resources including: Ancestry Library Edition; Newspapers.com; Fold3; Heritage Quest; Fire Insurance Maps Online (FiMo); and more.

We also have an expansive physical collection of books, microfilm, city directories, plat maps, and local history journals to assist in your research. Staff members are glad to help you start your genealogy research as well as work with you to overcome genealogical road blocks and hurdles. The CALS Butler Center staff is unable to conduct your research for you, but assistance in using sources and equipment is available in the Research Room on the 2nd floor of the CALS Bobby L. Roberts Library.

If you need detailed help, consider enlisting the help of a professional genealogist. Consult the database created by The Association of Professional Genealogists of member genealogists who can assist you with a full family history profile.

Register Today!

2026 Genealogy Workshop featuring Dr. Margarita Lila Rosa
CALS Main Library Darragh Center
Saturday, November 7, 2026
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Discover your family’s history in this free immersive, full-day workshop presented by CALS Butler Center for Arkansas Studies in partnership with Arkansas United and led by Dr. Margarita Rosa. Learn how to uncover genealogical, oral, and archival records; build a meaningful family tree; and interpret historical documents that bring your ancestors’ stories to life. Through hands-on activities and guided research, participants will gain practical tools to begin preserving their family’s history for future generations.

Register to Attend

Genealogy Resources

  • Digital Resources & Databases

    The Central Arkansas Library System subscribes to a number of databases specifically for genealogy research or that can help you better understand the world your ancestors lived in. Some databases are only available at the CALS Roberts Library, while others are available at your neighborhood CALS library branch or accessible at home with your CALS Library Card.

    View a Full List of Genealogy Databases

  • Books

    The CALS Butler Center’s physical collection contains family histories, maps, city directories, local historical journals, and other resources to assist in your genealogical research. These records can be accessed in the Research Room of the CALS Roberts Library. Our book and microfilm collections are only available for reference use and may not be checked out. All items with an ARK indicator require patron registration for use.

    View Available Titles

  • Microfilm & Microform

    Although many family history records are now available digitally through Ancestry.com, Family Search, and other online resources, a number of important Arkansas record series are only available on microfilm. These records can be accessed in the Research Room of the CALS Roberts Library. Our book and microfilm collections are only available for reference use and may not be checked out. All items with an ARK indicator require patron registration for use.

    On September 8, 2017, FamilySearch discontinued its microfilm distribution services. The change is the result of significant progress in FamilySearch’s microfilm digitization efforts and the obsolescence of microfilm technology. Digital imaging has made it easier to find ancestors through the internet, mobile, and other technologies.
    View Microfilm FAQ from Family Search

    View Available Microform

  • Programs from CALS Roberts Library

    CALS Roberts Library and the Butler Center for Arkansas Studies host regular genealogy programming including our annual genealogy workshop.

    Save the Date for the 2026 Genealogy Workshop, Saturday, November 7, 2026.

    View Recordings of Past Programs