Originally called the "Local History Collection" and established in 1976 as part of a bicentennial project, the New Cumberland Community Archives contains unique photographs, records, maps, newspaper, and other records of the history of New Cumberland the surrounding area. The collection represents the largest and most significant source of materials anywhere related to the history of the Borough of New Cumberland.

The New Cumberland Public Library is the owner and steward of the collection, and maintains the collection according to its Community Archives Collection Development Policy.

The collection contains items such as newspaper articles, books, maps, photographs, correspondence, scrapbooks, memorabilia, art work, and yearbooks. Access to the collection is granted by appointment or by request. An inventory of the collection (finding aid) is available in paper or online to assist researchers in locating relevant materials. A list of yearbooks is also available. For further information about the collection, making a donation, or access to the materials for research, please contact the Library at newcumberland@cumberlandcountylibraries.org. Please allow 2-3 business days for a response, as our archival staff is not full-time.

Access the Collection through PA Photos & Documents

Through a Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission Historical & Archival Records Care Grant and generous donation from Ken Ross, items in the collection are currently being digitized and uploaded to Power Library's PA Photos & Documents. There are currently over 500 items available to view online. To view these materials, visit powerlibrary.org/collections and view by Institution. Select New Cumberland Public Library and click on the desire collection to view the items available.

A Walking Tour of Historic New Cumberland PA

 The Historic Walking Tour of Historic Downtown New Cumberland is available for sale at the Library. Featuring photos from our Local History Collection, this wonderful guide was created by Linda Ries and is packed with fascinating details on our town's history. Just $5 a copy, the proceeds of the sales go to support the Library. This would be a great gift for anyone who grew up or lives in our Borough!