The most annoying, yet addictive part of investigating your family history is that you never know what you will discover in your research. This is where Family Group Records, the resources you have noted from your pre-exploration of the Family History Library Catalog comes in handy.
Family History Centers differ in their dimension and kinds of records accessible. As such you should make sure that your initial stop is with the volunteers. Request their help finding the CDs or fiche rolls that will most likely hold the information you are searching for. Also, if you are a stranger to fiche readers or computers, the volunteers can help.
Be certain that one of the resources you inspect is the International Genealogical Index (IGI). This database is a compilation of genealogical information accessible in a solitary supply. If you are new to sorted exploration, request assistance constructing one to ensure the IGI outcome matches up with the family you are looking for.
The IGI is always constantly being updated; therefore you may get a family member or ancestor in an older account of the IGI that is not listed in the most current one. You should also request to see the Main and the Addendum for every version of the IGI accessible. Remember the CD/film number linked with the name you are looking for and include that in your listing of CDs/films to view.
If the CD or film you require to view is not usually taken by your FHC, request to see the list of resources that additional people have asked for in the past. Nearly all Family History Centers keep a listing of rented resources that are presently in their division.
The advanced resources are generally reserved on site for a number of weeks, which offers you with an extra supply of information.
Additional resources include a listing of Family History publications, a catalog of periodicals, county maps, and additional indexes from around the world. FHC volunteers can also tell you if others in your region are researching material similar to yours. Information sharing is a major part of furthering your research. In addition, it’s also a great way to meet others who share your interest in genealogy.