Doris Foley Library for Historical Research

The Doris Foley Library is a Romanesque Revival building located on North Pine Street that houses research materials about Nevada County. The facility contains books, manuscripts, photographs, and official records that visitors can access for historical research and genealogical study.

The building was constructed in 1907 with funding from Andrew Carnegie and designed by William H. Weeks, an architect known for library projects throughout Northern California. It became a crucial repository for preserving local records and community history over the following decades.

The library holds extensive genealogical collections including church records, census data, cemetery records, and old newspapers that span generations. Visitors can search through these materials to trace family histories and learn about the region's past through local documentation.

The library is open Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 4 PM and offers materials for use within the building plus access to digital databases. Visitors should note that some rare documents require advance notice and photography may have restrictions.

The building was renamed in 1997 to honor Doris Foley, a local teacher and historian who dedicated herself to preserving the region's heritage. Her work was instrumental in collecting and making accessible many important documents for future generations.

Location: Nevada County

Inception: 1907

Architects: W. H. Weeks

Architectural style: Romanesque Revival architecture

Part of: Nevada County Library

Address: Doris Foley Library For Historical Research, 211 N. Pine St., Nevada City, CA 95959-2513, USA

Phone: +15302654606

GPS coordinates: 39.26373,-121.01900

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:40