Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are plans or blueprints available for my house?
A: If there is a Plan File number on the building card, it likely indicates there are blueprints for this home in the microfilm collection in the Local History Collection at the Shaker Heights Public Library. Plans of homes built before 1945 were not microfilmed, and the originals were not retained by the city of Shaker Heights. However, even for homes built before 1945, there are many microfilmed blueprints of post-1945 renovations or additions. If there is no Plan File number listed, blueprints were not microfilmed for this address.
Q: How do I obtain copies of microfilmed blueprints?
A: Blueprints on microfilm are being digitized, roll by roll, by volunteers, and can also be digitized upon request.
If your home's building card shows that microfilmed plans exist, please email the Shaker Library Local History Librarian at localhistory@shakerlibrary.org to request that your microfilmed blueprints be digitized and a link emailed to you. Be sure to include your house's address in your request.
Q: Where can I find more information about the architect of my home?
A: Some information about prominent Shaker Heights architects is located in the Local History Collection at the Shaker Heights Public Library as well as in other local repositories. The Cleveland Landmarks Commission maintains an online Architects Database. Some Ohio architects are also listed in the American Institute of Architects Historical Directory of American Architects.
Q: How do I see the back of the building index card? What information is contained there?
A: Your home's record page displays the image of the front of the building index card, and also includes the link "Download Complete Building Card" which shows a PDF of the entire set of card images for that property, front and back (and additional cards if they exist). The back of the building index card contains a list of building permits issued for the property before the mid-1990s. Permits issued after the mid-1990s are catalogued electronically in the Shaker Heights Building Department.
Q: What if my address is not in the database, or my address' page does not display a card image?
A: If there is no Building Card page for your home, or if your home's Building Card is not displaying on your home's page, it's possible either the original Building Card is missing and not available to digitize, or a database glitch is preventing your home's card or page from displaying. If your house or your house's card is not showing up in the Building Card database, please email localhistory@shakerlibrary.org so we can investigate.
Q: I think the information for my home is incorrect. What should I do?
A: If you see a transcription error or have any comment about the database, please email localhistory@shakerlibrary.org.
There may be discrepancies between this source and other published sources of property information. The City of Shaker Heights and the Shaker Heights Public Library assume no liability for damages as a result of errors, omissions or discrepancies contained in this database.
