The Statesboro-Bulloch County Library is one of Statesboro’s brightest gems hidden in plain sight. As the headquarters of the Statesboro Regional Public Library System, this library serves not only Bulloch County but also the surrounding communities of Bryan, Evans, Candler, and Emanuel counties.
Nestled inside the main branch in Statesboro is the Regional Genealogy and Local History Department, where Kaitlyn Capper is the new Genealogy and History Coordinator.
Capper brings a deep passion for history, along with personal knowledge and connections that are uniquely rooted in this community. A Southeast Bulloch County native, raised by her grandparents, she understands firsthand the importance of family stories and local heritage. A lifelong local, Kaitlyn offers a perspective shaped by lived experience, strong community ties, and a heartfelt commitment to preserving the history that defines this region.
Capper attended Georgia Southern University, where she met her husband, Thomas, and the couple has a son. Her family enjoys visiting local parks, museums, and of course, the library. In her spare time, Capper is usually reading, digging through historical records, drawing, hiking, cheering on her favorite hockey team, or enjoying a charcuterie board and a good murder mystery rerun.
“No one is born a historian but everyone is affected by history. We all come from somewhere,” shared Capper. “My goal is to nurture the love of history and show Statesboro and its surroundings, they have a place at the library and in the history of our town.”
The Genealogy and History Department offers a vast and unique collection of resources, including family histories, surname files, local church and cemetery records, court documents, land deeds, microfilm of local newspapers, rare books, maps, photographs, and extensive digital databases.
“We have many one-of-a-kind records you won’t find online or in other libraries," Capper said. "If we don’t have it, we’ll help you find it.”
On August 21, 2025, the Genealogy Department will host an introductory class designed to help seniors begin recording their personal stories and family histories for future generations. The class, titled Preserving Legacies, is recommended for adults aged 55 and older, and caregivers are welcome to attend.
“Today’s stories are tomorrow’s history,” said Capper. “This program empowers individuals to ensure their unique experiences are not lost to time.”
The Genealogy Department offers regular programs for all ages and experience levels, including free research assistance, genealogy talks, history discussions, and an informal Genealogy Club that allows beginners and experienced researchers to connect, share, and learn from one another, guest speakers or local historians.
Capper concluded, “Every one of us is shaped by the stories of our ancestors and the places we come from. Sometimes we just need a little help uncovering those stories, and that's where I come in."
Walk-ins are welcome; however, appointments are encouraged for more in-depth assistance and to ensure a staff member is available to assist you.
For more information, contact Kaitlyn Capper at 912-764-1340 or [email protected], or visit www.strl.info/genealogy.
