Local Collection Information

The material is available for reference use only. The most frequently used items are available on open access, for readers to browse through and select for themselves, but some of the stock is in a closed access area and is obtainable on request from a staff member.

Staff are happy to help readers use the catalogues and identify suitable material within the collection.

Books and Pamphlets

The core of the collection comprises of books and pamphlets relating to Ayrshire.

Directories for some Ayrshire towns are available but the collection relates particularly to Ayr and the surrounding district. These date from 1845/46 to 1966 (set incomplete).There are also commercial directories available for Scotland published in 1820, 1837 and 1868.

Voters Roll (Electoral Rolls/Register)

A complete run of Voters’ Rolls for the Burgh of Ayr, dating from 1882, is available. From 1975 to 1996 there is a complete set for Kyle and Carrick District and for South Ayrshire Council since 1996.

Valuation Rolls

Valuation Rolls for Ayrshire are available on open access in the Scottish and Local History Library. Dates available for Ayrshire are 1899-1942 (excluding Ayr, Irvine and Kilmarnock Burghs), Ayr Burgh from 1906-1974 and Kyle & Carrick from 1975 to 1996. South Ayrshire is available from 1996 onwards.