Library Collections

The Library & Archives holds the nation's largest collection of published materials about Montana history. The collection consists of books, periodicals, pamphlets, posters, ephemera, topical and biographical vertical files, and other types of records. In addition to covering Montana history, the Library collections include materials about the broader western region of North America and other topics that help tell and provide context for the story of Montana. Areas and topics of strength include: county and local histories, city and county directories, the cattle industry, the fur trade, and Montana community cookbooks.

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Vertical Files

Our Vertical Files are one of our most used collections and are available for use by patrons in our Reference Room. These files include news clippings, articles, booklets, and other miscellaneous material related to different topics and notable people in Montana's history. The Vertical Files Indexes are searchable and organized alphabetically by topic and last name.

Vertical Files Index - Topical

Vertical Files Index - Biographical

Ephemera Files

The Ephemera Files are short-lived printed items, such as political campaign materials, promotional flyers, programs, menus, and broadsides. Patrons can access the Ephemera Files by visiting our Reference Room and making a request. The index is searchable and organized alphabetically by topic.

Ephemera Files Index

Poster advertising departure of two steamboats from St. Louis to Fort Benton, April 2, 1863. P-157