Collections

Who We Are

History Nebraska’s mission is to collect, preserve, and open our shared history to all Nebraskans. Our Collections division is an integral part of that mission. It collects, preserves, and provides access to all sorts of materials that document Nebraska’s human history.

Materials held by the Collections Division include artwork, archeological materials, books, newspapers, maps, government records, records and papers from private businesses, organizations, and families, photographs; moving images; and sound recordings. For more information about what we collect, see our Collecting Plan (PDF). You can also review our Collections Management Policy.

History Nebraska Collections are available to the public through museum exhibits, public programs, publications, and through our Reference Services department. For more information about how to donate items, care for your family heirlooms and other frequently asked questions, see our Collections FAQs page.

History Nebraska is always seeking out images, artifacts, manuscripts, and more that help to tell our state’s history. Do you think you have a donation? Click the button below to get started.

Research and Reference Services

Navigating our vast collections can be difficult to do alone. That’s why our reference staff and volunteers are on hand to assist you with your research questions and requests. We strive to make your research efficient, pleasant, and productive.

The Reference Room is housed at History Nebraska’s HQ in Lincoln, but our staff is happy to help you find what you need from afar. Just send us an e-mail!

Become a Member!

Our members make history happen.

Online Services

Online Collections Search

Online Collections Search

History Nebraska Library Search

History Nebraska Library Search

Newspaper Inventory

Newspaper Inventory

Government Documents

Government Documents

More Research Resources

More Research Resources

Video Collection on YouTube

Video Collection on YouTube

Help Shape History

Become a Member

Being a member is the easiest way to be involved in our mission to preserve and share our state's rich history. Find out how!

Volunteer

Volunteers work with History Nebraska staff members to support our mission

Start Your Career

Interested in joining the History Nebraska team? Keep an eye on job listings!
About History Nebraska
History Nebraska was founded in 1878 as the Nebraska State Historical Society by citizens who recognized Nebraska was going through great changes and they sought to record the stories of both indigenous and immigrant peoples. It was designated a state institution and began receiving funds from the legislature in 1883. Legislation in 1994 changed History Nebraska from a state institution to a state agency. The division is headed by Interim Director and CEO Jill Dolberg. They are assisted by an administrative staff responsible for financial and personnel functions, museum store services, security, and facilities maintenance for History Nebraska.
Explore Nebraska
Discover the real places and people of our past at these History Nebraska sites.

Upcoming Events

View our new and upcoming events to see how you can get involved.

Become a Member

The work we do to discover, preserve, and share Nebraska's history wouldn't be possible without the support of History Nebraska members.

Latest Hall of Fame Inductee

The Nebraska Hall of Fame was established in 1961 to officially recognize prominent Nebraskans.

Listen to our Podcast

Listen to the articles and authors published in the Nebraska History Magazine with our new Nebraska History Podcast.

Nebraska Collections

History Nebraska's mission is to collect, preserve, and open our shared history to all Nebraskans.

Our YouTube Video Collection

Get a closer look at Nebraska's history through your own eyes, with our extensive video collections.

Additional Research Resources

History Nebraska Research and Reference Services help connect you to the material we collect and preserve.

Support History Nebraska
Make a cash donation to help us acquire, preserve, and interpret Nebraska’s history. Gifts to History Nebraska help leave a legacy and may help your taxes, too! Support the work of History Nebraska by donating to the History Nebraska Foundation today.

Volunteers are the heroes of History Nebraska. So much history, so little time! Your work helps us share access to Nebraska’s stories at our museums and sites, the reference room, and online.