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How to Get Copies of Past Yearbooks

Old yearbooks capture the spirit and nostalgia of our youth. Flipping through the pages of an old yearbook allows you to relive the glories of your high school, college or middle school years. Finding an old yearbook from your family̵7;s past can also help you unlock keys to the youth of those within your family tree when searching for genealogical information. Whatever your purpose for searching for old yearbooks, finding a yearbook from the past is possible with just a bit of searching.

Instructions

- 1
  Check with the school the yearbook represents. While most schools don̵7;t keep extra copies of yearbooks, you will be able to look through the yearbook to find the information or photos you need if the school keeps old yearbooks on hand. The school may also be able to provide you with information on how to obtain your own copy. Call the school ahead of time to make an appointment.
- 2
  Visit antique stores and thrift shops located in the area of the school. Many thrift shops receive old yearbooks that people have tossed in with their donations. Antique stores will also usually pursue old yearbooks. Call the antique shops in the area and inquire about the yearbook you̵7;re looking for. Many times the antique shops will attempt to track down a copy of the yearbook for a fee.
- 3
  Place an ad in the town̵7;s local paper. Many newspapers will allow you to post ads for items under $50 for free or for a very low fee. Check with the paper regarding their rates.
- 4
  Post wanted ads on online classified ad sites such as Craigslist. Specify the school and year of the yearbook you̵7;re looking for.
- 5
  Contact alumni of the school. Chances are at least one member of the graduating class will still have their yearbook on hand.
- 6
  Visit libraries native to the area of the school. Some libraries have a history room that chronicles the history of the area in which it is located. If the library doesn̵7;t have the yearbook you̵7;re looking for, the librarian̵7;s history room specialist may be able to help you locate a copy.

Other Collecting