I think we can all agree that there is very little in life that is free. But there is a free space available to all, at our local public library. It is a resource every genealogist needs to take advantage of.
So what does the free space that is you local library have to offer a family history researcher? Free access to books for a start. Check out your library catalogue to see what family history books are available. From genealogical reference books to published family histories, there may well be treasures lurking on the shelves waiting for you to find them. Check out the Local History collection too, especially if your family has lived in the area. Try contacting the library in places your family has lived to see what the Local History collection offers. Don't forget Inter-Library Loan either. Many public libraries can access titles not in their own collection through reciprocal lending agreements with other libraries.
Check out online databases the library may subscribe to. Many libraries have free public access to online genealogical databases you would otherwise have to pay to access. Depending on the licencing agreement, you may be able to access them from home using your library card, or they may be in-house use only, like Ancestry Library Edition or Find My Past. If the database is in-house only, you will need to visit your library and use their public computers or free wifi.
Check out online eResources too. Does your local library offer online magazines? Who Do You Think You Are, Family History UK, Family History Us and more might be available for you to download and read on your PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone, all free.
Ask about classes, talks and groups. Does your library ever run family history classes, host family history society meetings or genealogy chats? These can be a great way of expanding your researching knowledge and meeting other researchers to exchange research tips.
So take advantage of the free space that is your local library and see what they have to offer you.
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