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== Purpose of the Guide == | == Purpose of the Guide == | ||
The purpose of this guide is to help you discover your ancestry using the records available in the | The purpose of this guide is to help you discover your ancestry using the records available in the FamilySearch Library, the FamilySearch Center, or one of the more than two thousand family history centers located throughout the world. | ||
== | == FamilySearch Library and Related Services == | ||
==== | ==== FamilySearch Library ==== | ||
Since it was established in 1894, the | Since it was established in 1894, the FamilySearch 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 | Copies of the microfilms are available for use at the FamilySearch Library and in some [[Introduction to Family History Centers|family history centers]]. The FamilySearch Library is designed to help individuals who need help in learning and searching records to extend their family lines. Some information collected by the library is available on the Internet at [https://www.familysearch.org/ FamilySearch].<br> | ||
==== Family History Centers ==== | ==== Family History Centers ==== | ||
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== Research Process == | == Research Process == | ||
Family History research involves five basic steps. Each step is explained below. Staff members in the | Family History research involves five basic steps. Each step is explained below. Staff members in the FamilySearch Library or family history centers will be glad to help you complete these steps. A Research Overview is available as a [https://www.familysearch.org/help/helpcenter/lessons/switzerland-online-gazetteer-ortsnamenvideo presentation] to introduce you to the research process. | ||
[[Image:Research Guide1.jpg|Research Guide1]] | [[Image:Research Guide1.jpg|Research Guide1]] | ||
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==== Identify a Record Category ==== | ==== Identify a Record Category ==== | ||
The | The FamilySearch Library and family history centers have the following basic categories of records. | ||
*Compiled Records | *Compiled Records | ||
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==== Compiled Records ==== | ==== Compiled Records ==== | ||
These are records of previous research on individuals and families already done by others, such as family histories, biographies, or genealogies with pedigree charts and family group records. Though compiled records are very helpful, some information may be inaccurate or incomplete. The information is submitted by library patrons and is not verified by the | These are records of previous research on individuals and families already done by others, such as family histories, biographies, or genealogies with pedigree charts and family group records. Though compiled records are very helpful, some information may be inaccurate or incomplete. The information is submitted by library patrons and is not verified by the FamilySearch Library. Always carefully evaluate the information you find. | ||
It can be helpful 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 | It can be helpful 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 FamilySearch Library or family history centers. | ||
'''Ancestral File''' | '''Ancestral File''' | ||
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'''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 | 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 FamilySearch Library. However, most histories are also available on microfilm or microfiche and can be viewed at the FamilySearch Library or some family history centers. | ||
To find a family history, you will need to use the "Surname" section of the FamilySearch Catalog (if using the microfiche edition) or the "Surname" search in FamilySearch. The catalog does not list every name found in a family history. Only major families found in a history are listed. Look for your ancestor's surname (last name). | To find a family history, you will need to use the "Surname" section of the FamilySearch Catalog (if using the microfiche edition) or the "Surname" search in FamilySearch. The catalog does not list every name found in a family history. Only major families found in a history are listed. Look for your ancestor's surname (last name). | ||
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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 view the film at the | 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 view the film at the FamilySearch Library or any family history center listed as having a copy of the microfilm. | ||
'''Other Sources of Compiled Records''' | '''Other Sources of Compiled Records''' | ||
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These are records created at the time of important events in your ancestors' lives. For example, a local church or the local government may have recorded your ancestors' births, christenings, marriages, and burials. | These are records created at the time of important events in your ancestors' lives. For example, a local church or the local government may have recorded your ancestors' births, christenings, marriages, and burials. | ||
Most original records in the | Most original records in the FamilySearch 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 ===== | ||
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==== 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 | On your research log, record the authors, titles, time periods, and FamilySearch 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. | ||
==== Summary ==== | ==== Summary ==== | ||
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==== Obtain the Record ==== | ==== Obtain the Record ==== | ||
===== At the | ===== At the FamilySearch Library ===== | ||
Records at the | Records at the FamilySearch 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: | ||
FS Library US/CAN Film<br>3075101 Item 7 | FS Library US/CAN Film<br>3075101 Item 7 | ||
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===== Other Repositories ===== | ===== Other Repositories ===== | ||
Not every record about your ancestor is at the | Not every record about your ancestor is at the FamilySearch 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 ==== | ||
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===== Photocopies ===== | ===== Photocopies ===== | ||
Copy centers are located on each floor of the | Copy centers are located on each floor of the FamilySearch Library and the FamilySearch Center. Machines are available to copy books, microfilm, and microfiche. | ||
Many family history centers have equipment for photocopying books, microfilm, and microfiche. | Many family history centers have equipment for photocopying books, microfilm, and microfiche. | ||
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*Notes, research logs, and copies of documents behind the related family group record | *Notes, research logs, and copies of documents behind the related family group record | ||
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 | 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 FamilySearch 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 | 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 FamilySearch Library also offers several opportunities for you to share information. | ||
'''Share your family history.''' If you have written a family history, compiled an index, or created a database of genealogical information, you can place it in the | '''Share your family history.''' If you have written a family history, compiled an index, or created a database of genealogical information, you can place it in the FamilySearch Library to be preserved and used by others. If possible, please grant permission (or obtain it from the copyright owner) for the library to microfilm the record and circulate it wherever the library chooses. Contact the Acquisitions Unit, FamilySearch Library, 35 North West Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150, for more information. | ||
==== Repeat the Process ==== | ==== Repeat the Process ==== | ||
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You can learn more about how to do research in the and at family history centers. | You can learn more about how to do research in the and at family history centers. | ||
We hope this brief introduction will help you develop a lifelong interest in your family history. We invite you to return to the | We hope this brief introduction will help you develop a lifelong interest in your family history. We invite you to return to the FamilySearch 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 == | ||
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==== Orientation ==== | ==== Orientation ==== | ||
A brief orientation program is available at the | A brief orientation program is available at the FamilySearch 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. | ||
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. | ||
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==== Group Visits ==== | ==== Group Visits ==== | ||
For group visits, please contact the | For group visits, please contact the FamilySearch 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 FamilySearch 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 FamilySearch 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. | ||
When you are in the research areas of the | When you are in the research areas of the FamilySearch 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 | 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 FamilySearch 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> ==== | ||
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==== Correspondence ==== | ==== Correspondence ==== | ||
The | The FamilySearch 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. Some of them have copies of the | Family History Centers are located throughout the world. Some of them have copies of the FamilySearch Library's microfilms. Go to the following [https://www.familysearch.org/centers/locations/ website] to find the nearest Family History Center. Call ahead to see if films are available. | ||
==== Other Libraries and Archives ==== | ==== Other Libraries and Archives ==== | ||
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== Library Rules == | == Library Rules == | ||
The | The FamilySearch Library, the FamilySearch Center, and family history centers offer their services to the public with the understanding that those who use the collection will abide by the guidelines governing such use. Please observe the following rules so that all patrons can successfully use the facilities: | ||
*Please handle the equipment, books, and other materials carefully. | *Please handle the equipment, books, and other materials carefully. | ||
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*Do not leave personal belongings unattended. The library or center is not responsible for items that are lost or stolen. | *Do not leave personal belongings unattended. The library or center is not responsible for items that are lost or stolen. | ||
*Children under twelve must be kept under the control of their parents. | *Children under twelve must be kept under the control of their parents. | ||
*Food and drinks are not permitted in a family history center. In the | *Food and drinks are not permitted in a family history center. In the FamilySearch Library, they are permitted only in the snack room. | ||
*Smoking is not permitted anywhere in the building or on the grounds. | *Smoking is not permitted anywhere in the building or on the grounds. | ||
The | The FamilySearch Library has the following additional rules. Ask a staff member at the FamilySearch Center or a family history center for the rules for their facilities. | ||
*You may take up to five rolls of microfilm from the cabinets at any given time. Please refile each microfilm you use. | *You may take up to five rolls of microfilm from the cabinets at any given time. Please refile each microfilm you use. | ||
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