Genealogy Chat

I will be going to my local Library in a few days time to search the archives what do I need to bring with me? It will be my first time there. Regards, Anne-Marie.

Thanks Gwyneth was not sure what to bring. Can you photocopy documents and do I need to bring coins with me? Anne-Marie,

Have you asked if they have records that you need? Some places require you to book a film or fiche reader and you might want small change to pay for printing of any results found. Pencils only...is a rule in some libraries. I find an old fashioned notebook useful, particularly if I am looking out for several surnames. I put the surname in the margin if I find anything and it's easy to find them and group them when back home. Don't forget to record where you've looked, even if you get nil results. It will save going over the same ground at a later visit. Gwyn

I would imagine that each library has their own policy, - within a general guideline. Parish records on film / fiche can often be printed on a reader printer. Some libraries only have older readers which don't have this facility. Coins for copies would be useful, about 50p per print might be a rough guide. If you find post-1837 marriages this could save you a fortune as the information will be the same as on a GRO certificate. Other documents may be copied at the discretion of the librarian. The older the item, the less likely that you can photocopy. It is worth asking the librarian about your surname interest. At the library in my nearest main town they keep notes of other letters from people researching a family surname. They won't give the address of the previous researcher but I was able to help 2 researchers in different parts of UK, when the library was willing to forward a letter for them. Good luck. Gwyn

thanks for the tips, hopefully I will come back with lots of info? Anne-Marie.