The United States is home to many people who left the country they were born in to live in America. These people immigrated to the United States for a variety of reasons including to seek new lives and opportunities and to escape poverty, war, violence, or natural disasters. The story of immigration and immigrants is also the story of our country’s growth. You’ll find resources and books below that explore immigration in the U.S. Learn about immigrants’ experiences and contributions that contributed to our shared American identity.

Online Resources

Interactive Timeline: History of Immigration in America - KQED
Scroll through an interactive timeline to follow the tangled history of America's ever-changing immigration policies.

Ellis Island Expedition Series - National Park Service
This five-part video series explores the history and significance of Ellis Island for upper elementary students. Presented by Ranger Alex, the series covers the journey, inspections, and life after Ellis Island

Immigration and Relocation in U.S. History – Library of Congress
The history of the United States has been shaped by peoples and communities who came to its shores or moved within its borders. This presentation uses Library of Congress primary sources to explore moments and experiences from several of these communities.

Talking to Kids About Immigration Enforcement in Their Communities - Children's Hospital Los Angeles
A clinical psychologist shares tips for parents on how to help kids navigate stress related to immigration enforcement.

Orange Public Library offers Citizenship Kits that contain step-by-step instructions on the U.S. Naturalization process. Please visit the Citizenship Kits webpage for more information.

Helpful Books 

You can read about the history of immigration in the United States as well as diverse immigrant experiences by checking out the titles in our reading list.