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==== Family History Library ==== | ==== Family History Library ==== | ||
Since it was established in 1894, the Family History Library of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has become the largest of its kind in the world. The library has collected millions of microfilms, thousands of microfiche and books, and many other records. Most of the microfilms have been acquired through an extensive microfilming program that began in 1938. Microfilmers are presently filming original documents in churches, courthouses, and other archives in many countries. The originals of these microfilms are preserved in a vault in the mountains near Salt Lake City. The library is located at 35 North West Temple Street, Salt Lake City, Utah. The telephone number is 1-866-406-1830; Email address fhl@familysearch.org.<br> | Since it was established in 1894, the Family History Library of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has become the largest of its kind in the world. The library has collected millions of microfilms, thousands of microfiche and books, and many other records. Most of the microfilms have been acquired through an extensive microfilming program that began in 1938. Microfilmers are presently filming original documents in churches, courthouses, and other archives in many countries. The originals of these microfilms are preserved in a vault in the mountains near Salt Lake City. The library is located at 35 North West Temple Street, Salt Lake City, Utah. The telephone number is 1-866-406-1830; Email address fhl@familysearch.org.<br> | ||
Copies of the microfilms are available for use at the Family History Library and in [[Introduction to LDS Family History Centers|family history centers]]. The Family History Library is designed to help individuals who need help in learning and searching records to extend their family lines. Many of the records in the library are available through the family history centers. Some information collected by the library is available on the Internet at [https://www.familysearch.org/ FamilySearch].<br> | Copies of the microfilms are available for use at the Family History Library and in [[Introduction to LDS Family History Centers|family history centers]]. The Family History Library is designed to help individuals who need help in learning and searching records to extend their family lines. Many of the records in the library are available through the family history centers. Some information collected by the library is available on the Internet at [https://www.familysearch.org/ FamilySearch].<br> | ||
==== Family History Centers ==== | ==== Family History Centers ==== | ||
[[Introduction to LDS Family History Centers|Family History Centers]] are located throughout the world. Each has a basic collection of records and research publications to assist researchers. Each center has computers with Internet access. Most records available on microfilm or microfiche at the Family History Library may be ordered for use at the centers.<br> | [[Introduction to LDS Family History Centers|Family History Centers]] are located throughout the world. Each has a basic collection of records and research publications to assist researchers. Each center has computers with Internet access. Most records available on microfilm or microfiche at the Family History Library may be ordered for use at the centers.<br> | ||
==== Services and Resources ==== | ==== Services and Resources ==== | ||
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==== FamilySearch Center ==== | ==== FamilySearch Center ==== | ||
The FamilySearch Center is designed to introduce individuals unacquainted with family history to experience the excitement of discovering their ancestors. The center, located in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building at 15 East South Temple Street in Salt Lake City, has access to the Internet.<br> | The FamilySearch Center is designed to introduce individuals unacquainted with family history to experience the excitement of discovering their ancestors. The center, located in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building at 15 East South Temple Street in Salt Lake City, has access to the Internet.<br> | ||
== Research Process == | == Research Process == | ||
Family History research involves five basic steps. Each step is explained below. Staff members in the Family History Library or family history centers will be glad to help you complete these steps. A Research Overview is available as a [http://www.familysearch.org/eng/library/education/frameset_education.asp?PAGE=education_research_series_online.asp%3FActiveTab=2 | Family History research involves five basic steps. Each step is explained below. Staff members in the Family History Library or family history centers will be glad to help you complete these steps. A Research Overview is available as a [http://www.familysearch.org/eng/library/education/frameset_education.asp?PAGE=education_research_series_online.asp%3FActiveTab=2%7C video presentation] to introduce you to the research process. | ||
[[Image:Research Guide1.jpg|Research Guide1]] | [[Image:Research Guide1.jpg|Research Guide1]] | ||
== 1. Identify What You Know About Your Family == | === 1. Identify What You Know About Your Family === | ||
[[Image:Research Guide Chart1.jpg|Research Guide Chart1]] | [[Image:Research Guide Chart1.jpg|Research Guide Chart1]] | ||
=== Fill Out a Pedigree Chart and Family Group Record === | ==== Fill Out a Pedigree Chart and Family Group Record ==== | ||
Recall as much information as you can about yourself and your family members. Record what you know on [[Use Appropriate Forms|pedigree charts and family group sheets]]. Estimate dates and places if necessary. | Recall as much information as you can about yourself and your family members. Record what you know on [[Use Appropriate Forms|pedigree charts and family group sheets]]. Estimate dates and places if necessary. | ||
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*A family group record provides space to record information about the parents and children of a family. You can also record the source of your information. Fill out a family group record for each couple on your pedigree chart.<br> | *A family group record provides space to record information about the parents and children of a family. You can also record the source of your information. Fill out a family group record for each couple on your pedigree chart.<br> | ||
=== Gather Additional Information === | ==== Gather Additional Information ==== | ||
If you need more information, gather information from sources in your home or from a relative. Look for copies of birth, marriage, and death certificates; journals; scrapbooks; old letters; family Bibles; photographs; school records; military records; obituaries; deeds; and wills. Record on your pedigree chart and family group sheet any new information you find. | If you need more information, gather information from sources in your home or from a relative. Look for copies of birth, marriage, and death certificates; journals; scrapbooks; old letters; family Bibles; photographs; school records; military records; obituaries; deeds; and wills. Record on your pedigree chart and family group sheet any new information you find. | ||
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You may want to keep notes about your family history on a separate sheet of paper. These notes could be biographical information such as military service; education; social or economic status; migrations; participation in community, social, religious, or historical events; or physical descriptions. | You may want to keep notes about your family history on a separate sheet of paper. These notes could be biographical information such as military service; education; social or economic status; migrations; participation in community, social, religious, or historical events; or physical descriptions. | ||
=== Organize Your Records === | ==== Organize Your Records ==== | ||
Organize your records for easy access (see step 5 for suggestions on organizing). | Organize your records for easy access (see step 5 for suggestions on organizing). | ||
== 2. Decide What You Want to Learn About Your Family == | === 2. Decide What You Want to Learn About Your Family === | ||
[[Image:Research Guide Chart2.jpg|Research Guide Chart2]] | [[Image:Research Guide Chart2.jpg|Research Guide Chart2]] | ||
=== Select an Ancestor === | ==== Select an Ancestor ==== | ||
Select one ancestor you would like to learn more about. Begin with an ancestor for whom you already have some information. You will need at least his surname and some idea of when and where he lived. If possible, select an ancestor born before 1920, because most of the library's records date from before 1920. A staff member can help you. | Select one ancestor you would like to learn more about. Begin with an ancestor for whom you already have some information. You will need at least his surname and some idea of when and where he lived. If possible, select an ancestor born before 1920, because most of the library's records date from before 1920. A staff member can help you. | ||
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*'''Conflicting information:''' information from two sources does not agree. | *'''Conflicting information:''' information from two sources does not agree. | ||
=== Select a Research Question === | ==== Select a Research Question ==== | ||
Identify questions you want to answer about the person you selected. For example: | Identify questions you want to answer about the person you selected. For example: | ||
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Select one question as your [[Family Group Record Analysis: How to Guess Where to Start|research objective]]. By focusing on one question at a time, you increase your chances for success. | Select one question as your [[Family Group Record Analysis: How to Guess Where to Start|research objective]]. By focusing on one question at a time, you increase your chances for success. | ||
=== Prepare a Research Log === | ==== Prepare a Research Log ==== | ||
Use a [[Research Logs|research log]] to keep track of the records you want to search and the information you found. At the top of the log, write the name of the ancestor you selected, your research objective, and when and where he may have lived. | Use a [[Research Logs|research log]] to keep track of the records you want to search and the information you found. At the top of the log, write the name of the ancestor you selected, your research objective, and when and where he may have lived. | ||
== 3. Select Records to Search == | === 3. Select Records to Search === | ||
[[Image:Research Guide Chart3.jpg|Research Guide Chart3]] | [[Image:Research Guide Chart3.jpg|Research Guide Chart3]] | ||
=== Identify a Record Category === | ==== Identify a Record Category ==== | ||
The Family History Library and family history centers have the following basic categories of records. | The Family History Library and family history centers have the following basic categories of records. | ||
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*These are records dealing with geographical, historical, or cultural information. They include local histories, maps, gazetteers, language dictionaries, and guidebooks. Search these records to learn more about the area where your ancestors lived and the events that may have affected their lives and the records about them. | *These are records dealing with geographical, historical, or cultural information. They include local histories, maps, gazetteers, language dictionaries, and guidebooks. Search these records to learn more about the area where your ancestors lived and the events that may have affected their lives and the records about them. | ||
==== Finding Aids ==== | ===== Finding Aids ===== | ||
*These help you find the location of records; name indexes; library catalogs; or Web sites. | *These help you find the location of records; name indexes; library catalogs; or Web sites. | ||
=== Compiled Records === | ==== Compiled Records ==== | ||
It is best to search compiled records first. You can save a lot of time by seeing what information others have already found about your family. Compiled records can usually be searched quickly and easily. The following compiled records are available at the Family History Library or family history centers. | It is best to search compiled records first. You can save a lot of time by seeing what information others have already found about your family. Compiled records can usually be searched quickly and easily. The following compiled records are available at the Family History Library or family history centers. | ||
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The index identifies only the parents or spouse of a person. It does not show family members linked together in pedigrees or family groups as does Ancestral File. | The index identifies only the parents or spouse of a person. It does not show family members linked together in pedigrees or family groups as does Ancestral File. | ||
==== Family Histories ==== | ===== Family Histories ===== | ||
The library has thousands of family histories. In a family history, you may find genealogical information, photographs, biographical sketches, and stories about the family. Books are usually available only in the Family History Library. However, most histories are also available on microfilm or microfiche and can be ordered for use at a family history center. | The library has thousands of family histories. In a family history, you may find genealogical information, photographs, biographical sketches, and stories about the family. Books are usually available only in the Family History Library. However, most histories are also available on microfilm or microfiche and can be ordered for use at a family history center. | ||
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After you find catalog entries that contain your ancestor's surname, read the descriptions to see if the family history matches the time period and place in which your ancestor lived. The computer version of the catalog allows you to search for key words in the descriptions. This feature can save you time if many family histories contain your ancestor's surname. | After you find catalog entries that contain your ancestor's surname, read the descriptions to see if the family history matches the time period and place in which your ancestor lived. The computer version of the catalog allows you to search for key words in the descriptions. This feature can save you time if many family histories contain your ancestor's surname. | ||
When you find a book or microfilm that you want to view, write the complete call number, author, and title in your research log (see the example). Then obtain the book or microfilm as explained in step 4. | When you find a book or microfilm that you want to view, write the complete call number, author, and title in your research log (see the example). Then obtain the book or microfilm as explained in step 4. | ||
===== Other Sources of Compiled Records ===== | |||
= | |||
==== Other Sources of Compiled Records ==== | |||
Other sources of compiled records are available. Take your pedigree chart and research log to a staff member to determine whether any of the following sources would be helpful and how to locate them. Most compiled records are described in the [[Introduction to the Family History Library Catalog|Family History Library Catalog]]. | Other sources of compiled records are available. Take your pedigree chart and research log to a staff member to determine whether any of the following sources would be helpful and how to locate them. Most compiled records are described in the [[Introduction to the Family History Library Catalog|Family History Library Catalog]]. | ||
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*[[Family Group Records Collection]] | *[[Family Group Records Collection]] | ||
=== Original Records === | ==== Original Records ==== | ||
Most original records in the Family History Library are microfilm copies of records found in courthouses, churches, government offices, historical societies, and other archives throughout the world. Some records are available as books. Others are available on computer as part of FamilySearch. The following are some of the major types of original records available: | Most original records in the Family History Library are microfilm copies of records found in courthouses, churches, government offices, historical societies, and other archives throughout the world. Some records are available as books. Others are available on computer as part of FamilySearch. The following are some of the major types of original records available: | ||
==== Vital Records and Civil Registration ==== | ===== Vital Records and Civil Registration ===== | ||
Most government offices keep records of births, marriages, and deaths. In the Family History Library Catalog these records are listed under "Vital Records" for the United States and Canada, and "Civil Registration" for other countries. | Most government offices keep records of births, marriages, and deaths. In the Family History Library Catalog these records are listed under "Vital Records" for the United States and Canada, and "Civil Registration" for other countries. | ||
==== Church Records ==== | ===== Church Records ===== | ||
The church your ancestors attended may have kept records of their christenings, baptisms, confirmations, marriages, or burials. Church records are especially important if civil vital records are unavailable for a time period or region where your ancestor lived. | The church your ancestors attended may have kept records of their christenings, baptisms, confirmations, marriages, or burials. Church records are especially important if civil vital records are unavailable for a time period or region where your ancestor lived. | ||
==== Cemetery Records ==== | ===== Cemetery Records ===== | ||
From cemetery records and headstones, you may be able to learn the names, birth dates, and death dates of family members buried near each other. The epitaphs may help you establish the relationships between ancestors. | From cemetery records and headstones, you may be able to learn the names, birth dates, and death dates of family members buried near each other. The epitaphs may help you establish the relationships between ancestors. | ||
==== Census Records ==== | ===== Census Records ===== | ||
Most national governments conduct periodic censuses. Beginning in 1850, United States federal censuses listed every member of a household by name, with information about sex, age, country or state of birth, and occupation. Census records are especially helpful in determining where your ancestors lived. | Most national governments conduct periodic censuses. Beginning in 1850, United States federal censuses listed every member of a household by name, with information about sex, age, country or state of birth, and occupation. Census records are especially helpful in determining where your ancestors lived. | ||
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*[[England and Wales 1851 Census Population Schedules|British 1851 Census]] | *[[England and Wales 1851 Census Population Schedules|British 1851 Census]] | ||
==== Probate Records ==== | ===== Probate Records ===== | ||
When a person dies, court records may be created containing a copy of the person's will, if one exists, and the court's decision about how the estate is to be distributed among his heirs. These are called probate records, and they often provide names and family relationships. | When a person dies, court records may be created containing a copy of the person's will, if one exists, and the court's decision about how the estate is to be distributed among his heirs. These are called probate records, and they often provide names and family relationships. | ||
==== Military Records ==== | ===== Military Records ===== | ||
The names of individuals who served in the military or who were eligible for military service appear in military records. | The names of individuals who served in the military or who were eligible for military service appear in military records. | ||
==== Immigration Records ==== | ===== Immigration Records ===== | ||
Passenger lists or other immigration records may provide the date or ship on which an immigrant ancestor arrived or the name of the port to which he came. | Passenger lists or other immigration records may provide the date or ship on which an immigrant ancestor arrived or the name of the port to which he came. | ||
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Note: To find the records of an immigrant's place of origin, you usually need to know the exact city, town, or county where he lived. If you do not know this, search the records of the country to which he migrated. For more information, see the publication Tracing Immigrant Origins, available at the library or family history centers. | Note: To find the records of an immigrant's place of origin, you usually need to know the exact city, town, or county where he lived. If you do not know this, search the records of the country to which he migrated. For more information, see the publication Tracing Immigrant Origins, available at the library or family history centers. | ||
==== Other Original Documents ==== | ===== Other Original Documents ===== | ||
Other original documents include court, land, naturalization, taxation, business, medical, and school records. Be sure to check all jurisdictions (for example, town, county, state, and country) that may have kept records about your ancestor. | Other original documents include court, land, naturalization, taxation, business, medical, and school records. Be sure to check all jurisdictions (for example, town, county, state, and country) that may have kept records about your ancestor. | ||
=== Choose a Record Type === | ==== Choose a Record Type ==== | ||
When selecting a record, first decide which type of record may contain the information you are looking for (such as vital record, cemetery record, or military record). To decide upon a record type, do one of the following: | When selecting a record, first decide which type of record may contain the information you are looking for (such as vital record, cemetery record, or military record). To decide upon a record type, do one of the following: | ||
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*Take your research log to a staff member and ask for help in determining which type of record you should search for. | *Take your research log to a staff member and ask for help in determining which type of record you should search for. | ||
=== Select Specific Records to Search === | ==== Select Specific Records to Search ==== | ||
Once you have determined what type of record to search for, you will need to select a specific record. Most original records are listed in the "Locality" (or place) section of the Family History Library Catalog. This section lists records by country, state or province, county, or town. You will need to know the place where your ancestor lived and the type of record you chose to search, such as census, land and property, or vital record. The record type is called a topic in the FamilySearch version of the Family History Library Catalog. | Once you have determined what type of record to search for, you will need to select a specific record. Most original records are listed in the "Locality" (or place) section of the Family History Library Catalog. This section lists records by country, state or province, county, or town. You will need to know the place where your ancestor lived and the type of record you chose to search, such as census, land and property, or vital record. The record type is called a topic in the FamilySearch version of the Family History Library Catalog. | ||
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If you do not find any records listed under a place, search for records of other jurisdictions, such as the state, county, or city. You can also look for records of nearby places. Do not hesitate to ask a staff member for assistance. | If you do not find any records listed under a place, search for records of other jurisdictions, such as the state, county, or city. You can also look for records of nearby places. Do not hesitate to ask a staff member for assistance. | ||
=== Describe the Records on Your Research Log === | ==== Describe the Records on Your Research Log ==== | ||
On your research log, record the authors, titles, time periods, and Family History Library call numbers of any records you select. Your research log might look like the example. You now have the information you need to obtain a record. | On your research log, record the authors, titles, time periods, and Family History Library call numbers of any records you select. Your research log might look like the example. You now have the information you need to obtain a record. | ||
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Describe the records in your research log. | Describe the records in your research log. | ||
== 4. Obtain and Search the Record == | === 4. Obtain and Search the Record === | ||
[[Image:Research Guide Chart4.jpg|Research Guide Chart4]] | [[Image:Research Guide Chart4.jpg|Research Guide Chart4]] | ||
=== Obtain the Record === | ==== Obtain the Record ==== | ||
==== At the Family History Library ==== | ===== At the Family History Library ===== | ||
Records at the Family History Library are arranged by geographical area. The call number of the record tells you which area of the library this record is located in and whether it is a book, microfilm, or microfiche. The following are sample call numbers: | Records at the Family History Library are arranged by geographical area. The call number of the record tells you which area of the library this record is located in and whether it is a book, microfilm, or microfiche. The following are sample call numbers: | ||
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Not all microfilms are located in the library. You may need to order some microfilms. A library attendant can help you do this. The microfilm will arrive in a few hours or a few days, depending on where it is stored. | Not all microfilms are located in the library. You may need to order some microfilms. A library attendant can help you do this. The microfilm will arrive in a few hours or a few days, depending on where it is stored. | ||
==== At a Family History Center ==== | ===== At a Family History Center ===== | ||
Take your research log to a staff member. He or she can tell you whether the center already has the record. If not, the staff member will help you fill out a Microfilm and Microfiche Order Card and tell you the fees for postage and handling. Individual microfilms can be lent to family history centers for different lengths of time. The microfilm or microfiche should arrive in one to three weeks. Books cannot be lent to family history centers. | Take your research log to a staff member. He or she can tell you whether the center already has the record. If not, the staff member will help you fill out a Microfilm and Microfiche Order Card and tell you the fees for postage and handling. Individual microfilms can be lent to family history centers for different lengths of time. The microfilm or microfiche should arrive in one to three weeks. Books cannot be lent to family history centers. | ||
==== Other Repositories ==== | ===== Other Repositories ===== | ||
Not every record about your ancestor is at the Family History Library or a family history center. You may need to obtain copies of some records at other libraries, archives, or government and church offices. | Not every record about your ancestor is at the Family History Library or a family history center. You may need to obtain copies of some records at other libraries, archives, or government and church offices. | ||
=== Search the Record === | ==== Search the Record ==== | ||
Do not hesitate to ask a staff member for help to use the microfilm or microfiche equipment. Printed instructional materials are available to help you search some records. | Do not hesitate to ask a staff member for help to use the microfilm or microfiche equipment. Printed instructional materials are available to help you search some records. | ||
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If you have difficulty finding a record on a microfilm, check the item number of the record. Several records may be on one microfilm, and you may need to read the title page for each item to make sure you have the correct one. Names in an original record may be arranged chronologically or alphabetically. The following are common research problems you should be aware of. | If you have difficulty finding a record on a microfilm, check the item number of the record. Several records may be on one microfilm, and you may need to read the title page for each item to make sure you have the correct one. Names in an original record may be arranged chronologically or alphabetically. The following are common research problems you should be aware of. | ||
==== Name Changes ==== | ===== Name Changes ===== | ||
Many immigrants changed or shortened their names after arriving in the new country. You may need to check for various possibilities. | Many immigrants changed or shortened their names after arriving in the new country. You may need to check for various possibilities. | ||
==== Spelling Variations ==== | ===== Spelling Variations ===== | ||
Check for variant spellings of your ancestor's name. Many recorders spelled names according to sound. A person may be listed with a nickname or abbreviation. | Check for variant spellings of your ancestor's name. Many recorders spelled names according to sound. A person may be listed with a nickname or abbreviation. | ||
==== Handwriting ==== | ===== Handwriting ===== | ||
Most original documents are handwritten. If you cannot read a letter, look at other names in the record to see how the writer made certain letters. Some handbooks illustrate the ways letters were written in earlier times. | Most original documents are handwritten. If you cannot read a letter, look at other names in the record to see how the writer made certain letters. Some handbooks illustrate the ways letters were written in earlier times. | ||
==== Dates ==== | ===== Dates ===== | ||
You may want to check a range of dates for an event. It may be recorded on a different date than you expect. | You may want to check a range of dates for an event. It may be recorded on a different date than you expect. | ||
=== Record the Results === | ==== Record the Results ==== | ||
Record what you find on your research log, even if you don't find any new information. If you don't do this, you may waste time searching the same record again. Make copies of key documents. | Record what you find on your research log, even if you don't find any new information. If you don't do this, you may waste time searching the same record again. Make copies of key documents. | ||
==== Photocopies ==== | ===== Photocopies ===== | ||
Copy centers are located on each floor of the Family History Library and the FamilySearch Center. Machines are available to copy books, microfilm, and microfiche. | Copy centers are located on each floor of the Family History Library and the FamilySearch Center. Machines are available to copy books, microfilm, and microfiche. | ||
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Under certain conditions specified in the law, a library patron may make a photocopy or other reproduction of copyrighted material. One of these conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be "used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research." The law calls this a "fair use" of the material, which does not infringe on the copyright held by its owner. If someone later uses a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of "fair use," he or she may be liable for copyright infringement. | Under certain conditions specified in the law, a library patron may make a photocopy or other reproduction of copyrighted material. One of these conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be "used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research." The law calls this a "fair use" of the material, which does not infringe on the copyright held by its owner. If someone later uses a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of "fair use," he or she may be liable for copyright infringement. | ||
== 5. Use the Information == | === 5. Use the Information === | ||
[[Image:Research Guide Chart5.jpg|Research Guide Chart5]] | [[Image:Research Guide Chart5.jpg|Research Guide Chart5]] | ||
=== Evaluate the Information === | ==== Evaluate the Information ==== | ||
In order to evaluate your information, consider the following: | In order to evaluate your information, consider the following: | ||
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*Is the source of the information credible? | *Is the source of the information credible? | ||
=== Transfer the Information === | ==== Transfer the Information ==== | ||
Add any new information to your family group records. Record the source of the information. The source can help you resolve problems with conflicting information. For example, if a birth record gives one birth date, and an obituary gives another birth date for the same person, you will want to determine which date came from the more authoritative source (usually the source made closest to the time of the event). | Add any new information to your family group records. Record the source of the information. The source can help you resolve problems with conflicting information. For example, if a birth record gives one birth date, and an obituary gives another birth date for the same person, you will want to determine which date came from the more authoritative source (usually the source made closest to the time of the event). | ||
=== Organize Your Records === | ==== Organize Your Records ==== | ||
Organize your records for easy access. One possible order is as follows: | Organize your records for easy access. One possible order is as follows: | ||
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A number of computer programs can help you organize your records on your home computer. For information about programs that are compatible with FamilySearch (meaning they can share data easily with any FamilySearch file), see a staff member. One of these programs, Personal Ancestral File, is available for use at the Family History Library and at most family history centers. | A number of computer programs can help you organize your records on your home computer. For information about programs that are compatible with FamilySearch (meaning they can share data easily with any FamilySearch file), see a staff member. One of these programs, Personal Ancestral File, is available for use at the Family History Library and at most family history centers. | ||
=== Share Information === | ==== Share Information ==== | ||
You can help make research easier and faster for yourself and for others by sharing the results of your research. Share the information you find with family members. They may have more information for you. The Family History Library also offers several opportunities for you to share information. | You can help make research easier and faster for yourself and for others by sharing the results of your research. Share the information you find with family members. They may have more information for you. The Family History Library also offers several opportunities for you to share information. | ||
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'''Submit names for temple ordinance work.''' Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints may want to submit names of ancestors for temple ordinance work. A staff member or your ward family history consultant can help you. | '''Submit names for temple ordinance work.''' Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints may want to submit names of ancestors for temple ordinance work. A staff member or your ward family history consultant can help you. | ||
=== Repeat the Process === | ==== Repeat the Process ==== | ||
Repeat the research process by choosing— | Repeat the research process by choosing— | ||
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We hope this brief introduction will help you develop a lifelong interest in your family history. We invite you to return to the Family History Library, the FamilySearch Center, or a family history center as often as you would like. Please let us know if we can be of any further help. | We hope this brief introduction will help you develop a lifelong interest in your family history. We invite you to return to the Family History Library, the FamilySearch Center, or a family history center as often as you would like. Please let us know if we can be of any further help. | ||
= Additional Information = | == Additional Information == | ||
== Indexing of Records == | === Indexing of Records === | ||
As you search for your family members beyond the first few generations, you will often use original records. Many of these records are not indexed and may be in languages or handwriting you are not familiar with. You can help index names found in original records, thereby making the records more accessible to other researchers. | As you search for your family members beyond the first few generations, you will often use original records. Many of these records are not indexed and may be in languages or handwriting you are not familiar with. You can help index names found in original records, thereby making the records more accessible to other researchers. | ||
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Thousands of volunteers are helping to extract or index information from vital, census, and immigration records. For information about how you can participate in the Family Record Extraction program, ask a staff member for the name of the local extraction director. | Thousands of volunteers are helping to extract or index information from vital, census, and immigration records. For information about how you can participate in the Family Record Extraction program, ask a staff member for the name of the local extraction director. | ||
== Other Services == | === Other Services === | ||
The following services are also available to you: | The following services are also available to you: | ||
=== Orientation === | ==== Orientation ==== | ||
A brief orientation program is available at the Family History Library. To preserve the quiet research environment of the library, guided tours are not provided. Family history centers may provide orientation programs, including guided tours. Ask a staff member. | A brief orientation program is available at the Family History Library. To preserve the quiet research environment of the library, guided tours are not provided. Family history centers may provide orientation programs, including guided tours. Ask a staff member. | ||
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An orientation to FamilySearch™ and the FamilySearch Center is available on each FamilySearch computer in the center. | An orientation to FamilySearch™ and the FamilySearch Center is available on each FamilySearch computer in the center. | ||
=== Group Visits === | ==== Group Visits ==== | ||
For group visits, please contact the Family History Library, the FamilySearch™ Center, or a family history center in advance for a list of services, hours, holiday schedules, and other information that can make your visit more successful. Basic services are listed in the publication Family History Library and Family History Centers Services and Resources. This publication is updated annually. Ensure that your group is prepared to use the facility. In the Family History Library and FamilySearch Center, you can request a room for classes or meetings. The FamilySearch Center has rooms available with FamilySearch computers for group activities. | For group visits, please contact the Family History Library, the FamilySearch™ Center, or a family history center in advance for a list of services, hours, holiday schedules, and other information that can make your visit more successful. Basic services are listed in the publication Family History Library and Family History Centers Services and Resources. This publication is updated annually. Ensure that your group is prepared to use the facility. In the Family History Library and FamilySearch Center, you can request a room for classes or meetings. The FamilySearch Center has rooms available with FamilySearch computers for group activities. | ||
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When you are in the research areas of the Family History Library, please separate into groups of no more than five, with a leader for each group. | When you are in the research areas of the Family History Library, please separate into groups of no more than five, with a leader for each group. | ||
=== Additional Instruction === | ==== Additional Instruction ==== | ||
Ask a staff member about classes, printed aids, video training programs, and other instructional resources. Genealogical forms and instructional publications are available for sale. In the Family History Library, items for sale are located near each copy center. | Ask a staff member about classes, printed aids, video training programs, and other instructional resources. Genealogical forms and instructional publications are available for sale. In the Family History Library, items for sale are located near each copy center. | ||
=== Accredited Genealogists<sup>®</sup> and Certified Genealogists<sup>(SM)</sup> === | ==== Accredited Genealogists<sup>®</sup> and Certified Genealogists<sup>(SM)</sup> ==== | ||
'''(Professional Researchers) '''<br> | '''(Professional Researchers) '''<br> | ||
Two agencies license professional genealogical researchers: <br>1. The International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists® (ICAPGen) <br>2. The Board for Certification of Genealogists® (BCG). <br>Both organizations carefully test the research skills of their members before granting licensure. Both require their members to sign a code of ethics and have the members renew their credentials every five years. <br>A list of Accredited Genealogists can be found at [http://www.icapgen.org www.icapgen.org].<br>A list of Certified Genealogists can be found at [http://www.bcgcertification.org www.bcgcertification.org]. | Two agencies license professional genealogical researchers: <br>1. The International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists® (ICAPGen) <br>2. The Board for Certification of Genealogists® (BCG). <br>Both organizations carefully test the research skills of their members before granting licensure. Both require their members to sign a code of ethics and have the members renew their credentials every five years. <br>A list of Accredited Genealogists can be found at [http://www.icapgen.org www.icapgen.org].<br>A list of Certified Genealogists can be found at [http://www.bcgcertification.org www.bcgcertification.org]. | ||
=== Correspondence === | ==== Correspondence ==== | ||
The Family History Library will respond to any questions that can be answered briefly but does not provide a research service. Ask a staff member for a Reference Questionnaire form on which to send your question. | The Family History Library will respond to any questions that can be answered briefly but does not provide a research service. Ask a staff member for a Reference Questionnaire form on which to send your question. | ||
=== Family History Centers === | ==== Family History Centers ==== | ||
Family History Centers are located throughout the world. You can use most of the Family History Library's microfilms on loan. Go to the following [https://www.familysearch.org/locations website] to find the nearest Family History Center. | Family History Centers are located throughout the world. You can use most of the Family History Library's microfilms on loan. Go to the following [https://www.familysearch.org/locations website] to find the nearest Family History Center. | ||
=== Other Libraries and Archives === | ==== Other Libraries and Archives ==== | ||
Excellent information is available from courthouses, libraries, archives, and societies. Ask a staff member for addresses and more information. | Excellent information is available from courthouses, libraries, archives, and societies. Ask a staff member for addresses and more information. | ||
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*When using photocopy equipment, please limit yourself to five copies when others are waiting. | *When using photocopy equipment, please limit yourself to five copies when others are waiting. | ||
= Selecting Record Types = | == Selecting Record Types == | ||
{| class="plain FCK__ShowTableBorders" | {| class="plain FCK__ShowTableBorders" | ||
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| colspan="2" | RECORD TYPES<br>Look in the Family History Library Catalog, Locality section for these record types: | | colspan="2" | RECORD TYPES<br>Look in the Family History Library Catalog, Locality section for these record types: | ||
|- | |- | ||
| <br> | | <br> | ||
| First look for: | | First look for: | ||
| Then look for: | | Then look for: | ||
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Note: Also search the [[Introduction to the Family History Library Catalog|Family History Library Catalog]] , using the Subject section for key topics in your objective. | Note: Also search the [[Introduction to the Family History Library Catalog|Family History Library Catalog]] , using the Subject section for key topics in your objective. | ||
= | == Related Content == | ||
*[[Principles of Family History Research|Principles of Family History Research]] | *[[Principles of Family History Research|Principles of Family History Research]] | ||
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[[Category:Beginners]] [[Category:Research_Process]] | [[Category:Beginners]] [[Category:Research_Process]] | ||