Family history and genealogy - general information
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 Index (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.
Downloadable documents
ScotlandsPeople vouchers
ScotlandsPeople vouchers are on sale at Linlithgow, Almondbank, Broxburn and Blackridge Libraries, and at the Local History Library in Hopefield Road, Blackburn. Start-up vouchers have 60 credits and cost £6. Top-up vouchers have 30 credits and cost £4.60. For further information, phone 01506 776331 or e-mail localhistory@westlothian.gov.uk.
Museums
Discover local heritage in our community museums, including mining, transport and weaving.
Traditional events
For a taste of the West Lothian – past and present – visit one of the annual events hosted by our traditional town centres.
