Many public libraries across the country offer access to genealogy databases that are limited to use while in the library. If you are looking for a free resource to use outside of the library, check out the free genealogy resource, FamilySearch.
What is FamilySearch, opens a new window?
FamilySearch was initially founded in 1894 as the Genealogical Society of Utah as a resource for Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) members to discover more about their history and trace their ancestry. FamilySearch is able to offer this genealogy resource free to all users, opens a new window through sponsorship by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). The LDS Church supports this nonprofit in connection with the church's Family History Department.
How Does It Work?
After creating a free account, FamilySearch, opens a new window allows users to create their own family trees based on the information they know and then expand their family trees using the information provided by other users.
Tips For Getting Started
One of our favorite features in FamilySearch is Memories, opens a new window.
After you have digitized all those photos and slides at one of our Digital Media Stations, what will you do with them? Memories is a fantastic option, especially when thinking about cloud-based storage for your family photos, documents and oral history recordings. The FamilySearch Memories feature allows you to upload photos, audio files, or documents to FamilySearch, either as a single item or as a group of multiple items. Click here to learn more!
Genealogy Subscriptions can be expensive.
Consider FamilySearch as your "home base" from which to build your family tree, for free! And definitely use those great in-library-only resources as additional research tools.
Prepare to feel overwhelmed, initially.
That feeling will subside as you learn how the various databases work, learn how to navigate them, and ultimately learn how to exploit each one for its unique value.
Learn more about FamilySearch and how to create an account!
Add a comment to: Genealogy Resources: FamilySearch