Local Collection

Parish Registers

Microfilm copies of the Parish Registers for all towns and villages in Ayrshire are available. They were kept by parish ministers before the introduction of statutory civil registration in 1855, listing births, deaths and marriages.

A surname index of births, marriages and deaths for Ayr parish March 1766 to December 1854 is also available.

Microfilm copies for Ayrshire 1841 -1901 are available for public access in the Scottish and Local History Library.

The IGI is available on microfiche.

A range of material is available on microfilm/fiche. Due to heavy use it is advisable to book a reader in advance. There are three Microfilm Readers available for public use, two which also print.

Two computers are also available and readers can book a PC to use various software packages and CD ROM's. Booking is advisable.

There is a charge for software packages (£2.00 for 1 hour). There are concessions available to South Ayrshire Leisure Card holders. CD ROM's may be used FREE of charge.

CD ROM titles include Family Tree Maker, Scottish Bibliography and the Herald newspaper. Staff are happy to help readers use the facilities available but first time computer users are advised to attend the CyberCentre for some basic training in the first instance.

Copies of material may be obtained in the form of photocopies subject to copyright restrictions and condition of material.