Gee, I was pleasantly surprised at how helpful the ladies were when I was doing research on my Grandparents...very accomodating and showed me how to view microfilm docs and make copies (much the same as Mississippi State Archives folks in Jackson)...An interesting point for those doing real research...Louisana marriage licenses require that both parties provide their parents names (mother's maiden), which is extremely helpful in doing ancestry research.....as a result was able to contact a distant cousin in France (he is also doing family research), and was able to track ancestors to 1625 In Southern France!

Once a year is Audubon Day which is free but you must email a request months in advance. On Audubon day you get to see the Origional 1810 Elephant Portfolios of John James Audubons Birds of America. These books are huge and are wonderful works of art and you will be treated to a close up private viewing

This building houses historical treasures of our state. If patrons are willing to do the legwork involved in researching their families, the facility may prove valuable. Although the facility has a treasure of materials, staff is not overly accommodating, helpful or friendly. Patrons will gain general historical information, but more advanced researchers may/may not obtain what they went for. The displays are often interesting, but be prepared to give up your purses, satchels, and cell phones in order to gain access to the research room. Also, due to budget cuts, the research room has inconvenient hours of operation. Also, the most treasured of documents are kept away from the general public in some dark, secluded place. Getting access to these valuable materials is nearly impossible.

The archives are a real treasure for everyone from the casually curious to the serious historian. I'd be willing to bet most locals don't realize how much can be discovered here. The experience is sort of like going to a half library/half museum. If you've never been to an archive before don't be intimidated. The staff is incredibly helpful and hospitable. I highly recommend that anyone with an interest in this region check out the archives. You won't regret it.

The state archives stores items of all sorts that are associated with Louisiana. Unfortunately, most of those things are stored somewhere in the back. There are always displays of various memorabilia for one to see and often art shows covering a particular theme. Good place to visit Monday through Friday especially if weather is messy.