Family history and genealogy - general information

Boy and girl  

The West Lothian Local History Library holds lots of family history information for West Lothian:

  • Census records 1841-1901
  • Old Parish Records
  • Monumental Inscriptions pre-1855 for West Lothian and many other parts of Scotland
  • International Genealogical Indiex (IGI) for Scotland and Ireland
  • 1881 Census for Great Britain on CD-ROM
  • Index to 1891 Census for all of Scotland
  • Local newspapers from 1873 (new window)
  • Poll and Hearth Tax records, 1690s
  • Valuation Rolls 1855 to date
  • Voters' Rolls 1864 to date
  • Some Kirk Session Records
  • Confirmations and Inventories 1876-1933 for Scotland

We can help you with

  • advice on how to get started
  • where to find classes on family history
  • family history workshops
  • free internet access

 The Local History Library cannot undertake general family history research on your behalf, but is happy to respond to specific enquiries.

Museum lamp

Museums

Discover local heritage in our community museums, including mining, transport and weaving.
children running

Traditional events

For a taste of the West Lothian – past and present – visit one of the annual events hosted by our traditional town centres.
Love Libraries

Libraries

Not just books - DVDs, CDs and free Internet access. Something for all, from Storytime to local history.
Daffodils light up West Lothian's Country Parks

Visit our country parks

West Lothian has three country parks each with its unique features and activities.
councillors' surgeries Work for West Lothian Council swine flu Enter the West Lothian Garden Competition - closing date 10 July.