Welcome to the Local History Archive at Biblioteka Pljevlja. Our archive room is a treasure trove for anyone interested in researching the history of Pljevlja and its surrounding areas.

Here, you will find a variety of resources including:

Whether you are a student, a historian, or simply a curious resident, our archive is open to all who wish to delve into the past. Our knowledgeable staff is available to assist you in navigating the collection and finding the materials you need.

To access the archive, please visit us during our operating hours or contact us for more information about our resources and services.

We invite you to explore the rich history of Pljevlja and discover the stories that have shaped our community.

Planning Your Research Visit

Local history research is most rewarding when you arrive with a clear question. Before your visit, write down what you hope to find: a family name, a street or village, a building, a period such as the interwar years, or an event that shaped the town. A focused question helps staff point you to the right boxes, folders or bound volumes, and saves you hours of browsing.

Getting the most from different sources

  • Photographs often carry little written information. Note anything visible on the back, such as stamps, handwriting or studio marks, and compare street views with present-day Pljevlja to date them.
  • Maps show how neighbourhoods, roads and surrounding settlements changed over time. Comparing maps from different decades is a useful way to trace the growth of the town and the impact of industry such as mining.
  • Newspaper clippings capture how events were reported at the time. Keep in mind that coverage reflects the viewpoint of its period, so cross-check details with other material where you can.
  • Personal narratives add voices and everyday detail that official records leave out. Memories can blur dates, so treat them as rich context rather than precise evidence.

Handling and recording materials

Many items in a local history collection are fragile and cannot be replaced. Use pencil rather than pen when taking notes, keep food and drink away from the reading table, and turn pages gently. Ask staff before photographing anything, as some materials may have restrictions. Record the details of every item you use, including its title, date and any reference number, so that you or others can find it again and cite it properly.

Language and older documents

Much of the material is in Montenegrin and related languages, and older documents may use Cyrillic script or earlier spelling conventions. If you are not comfortable reading these, consider bringing a friend who is, or allow extra time for transcription and translation.

You can search for related books and published studies in our catalog before you come, and a library membership makes it easier to borrow supporting reading. For questions about specific collections, please get in touch ahead of your visit.

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