BYGDELAG SPECIAL COLLECTIONS ROOM

The Haugo Bibliotek - Bygdelag Special Collections is now open for family history research!

What is in the Special Collections Room?

  • The Special Collections Room contains the Bygdelag Special Collections, which are Norwegian genealogy reference materials. The collections contain non-circulating material owned by both Norway House and the Norwegian-American Bygdelags. Some lags have deposited portions of their collections in the Haugo Bibliotek for the preservation of these rare materials in an archival-grade storage space while also making them available to the general public.

  • Materials may only be accessed during the Special Collections Room’s open hours or by appointment under the supervision of trained staff or volunteers.

  • The Bygdelag Special Collection Room was made possible by the Norwegian-American Bygdelagenes Fellesraad.

Open hours

  • The Bygdelag Special Collections Room is currently open weekly on Tuesdays from 1:00pm-3:30pm. No appointment is necessary, but please let us know if you plan to stop by! If you would like to visit outside of regular open hours, please contact us at info@norawyhouse.org to request an appointment. Appointments should be requested at least one week in advance.

  • It is helpful for our volunteers if prior to your visit, you determine the main research goals you have (which pieces of information you're specifically looking for) and the relevant research you have done to date (names, dates, locations, family relationships, sources, etc.). Examples of research goals include "I want to find where in Norway my ancestors came from," "I want to find my family farm," or "I want to learn more about my ancestor's parents/grandparents in Norway." This information will help make the most effective use of your time. We encourage you to send us this information prior to your visit.

Interested in contributing to our growing collection?

  • Individuals may donate bygdebøker and other Norwegian genealogical reference materials to Norway House. Before bringing your books to Norway House, please contact info@norwayhouse.org to let us know what you would like to donate!

  • Bygdelags interested in depositing their collection in the Haugo Bibliotek should contact info@norwayhouse.org for more information.

  • Online Catalog

    • Visit the Haugo Bibliotek’s online catalog to see the materials in our collection, links to online family history resources, and other repositories containing materials related to Norwegian-American genealogy! norwayhouse.mlasolutions.com

Online Catalog

Interested in volunteering?
If you are passionate about family history research and want to assist others on their research journey, contact us at info@norwayhouse.org!