Welcome to the Helen Foster Purvis Mississippi Room here at the Lee County Library.

The Mississippi Room is a special collection containing materials pertaining to local and state history. Located on the second floor of the Lee County Library, our collection is comprised of various media such as books, microfilm, maps, scrapbooks, digital files, video, audio, and photographs. These items do not circulate, but patrons are very welcome to view, access, and copy certain items.

Patrons are also able to research their genealogy. Our genealogy resources include family histories, city and county histories, cemetery records, and access to popular genealogy web sites.

Email our Reference Staff

Additional Resources

  • Access information about the City of Tupelo and government departments here.

  • Start your pilgrimage in the king’s own hometown here.

  • The Natchez Trace is a regional icon, rich with history. Learn more here.

  • Start your genealogical journey with FamilySearch here.

  • Locate and remember loved ones through Find A Grave here.

  • Uncover your family tree with Genealogy, Inc.

  • Access transcribed genealogical and local history data through Genealogy Trails here.

  • Research your family history through the HeritageQuest database. You will need your library card barcode number to log into Heritage Quest from home.

  • Explore Itawamba County history through the Itawamba County Historical Society.

  • Visit MDAH.ms.gov.

  • Access a directory of local historical and genealogical societies throughout the State of Mississippi here.

  • Find vital records for individuals from Mississippi here.

  • Explore family history and connect with others researching their own genealogy through RootsWeb.

  • Learn more about the engineering marvel that powered a region, here.

  • You know it, you love it—it’s the fir TVA city! Learn more about Tupelo, Mississippi.

  • Wander through the Magnolia State.