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If you plan to visit one of these repositories, contact the archive or library and ask for information about its collection, hours, services, and fees. Also ask who may use their facility. | If you plan to visit one of these repositories, contact the archive or library and ask for information about its collection, hours, services, and fees. Also ask who may use their facility. | ||
Although the original records you need may be in an archive or library in Germany, the Family History Library may have a microfilm copy of them. Check the [[Introduction to the FamilySearch Catalog|FamilySearch Catalog]] before writing to or visiting archives in Germany. | Although the original records you need may be in an archive or library in Germany, the Family History Library may have a microfilm copy of them, or they may be available on the Internet. Check the [[Introduction to the FamilySearch Catalog|FamilySearch Catalog]] and online resources before writing to or visiting archives in Germany. | ||
German archives and parishes often refer family history letters to historical or genealogical societies. Members of these societies can usually search the local archives. Sometimes the archive will recommend other archives to which you can write. | German archives and parishes often refer family history letters to historical or genealogical societies. Members of these societies can usually search the local archives. Sometimes the archive will recommend other archives to which you can write. | ||
When writing to a German-speaking archive or library, it is best to write in German. For help in writing a letter in German, see the German [[Germany Letter Writing Guide|Letter-Writing Guide]]. Electronic translation tools should be avoided. Letters written in English are preferable to those translated electronically. | When writing to a German-speaking archive or library, it is best to write in German. For help in writing a letter in German, see the German [[Germany Letter Writing Guide|Letter-Writing Guide]]. Electronic translation tools should be avoided. Letters written in English are preferable to those translated electronically. | ||