Finding the Source of IGI Batch Numbers

The records in the International Genealogical Index (IGI) comes from a variety of difference sources. Sometimes the original record that was used to create the record in the Index will have additional information that is not found in the IGI record. When the source information is available in the IGI record, you want to take the time to find the original record and review it for additional information that may help with your family history research. The source information listed in an IGI record can contain the following pieces of information:


 * Batch Number
 * Sheet Number
 * Dates
 * Source Call Number and Type
 * Printout Call Number and Type

Batch Numbers[[Image:Source batch.jpg|IGI Source Batch Number]]
When a batch number is listed, you can click on the number to get a complete list of names that were included in the batch. Sometimes you will find other family members listed in the batch. Different batch numbers are used for different types of records. Knowing the type of record that was used to create the IGI entry will help you understand the original source record that you will be looking for. A chart containing a description of all the different batch numbers that have been used is available: IGI Batch Number Descriptions

Sheet Numbers
When a sheet number is listed, you will need both the batch number and the sheet number to locate the original source record on microfilm.

Dates
The dates listed in the source information tells you the range of dates for all the records in the batch. When there is more than one item on a microfilm, the date will help you find the right item on the film.

Source Call Number and Type
Most, if not all, IGI records now include the source call number. This call number is the Family History Library catalog number for the records in the batch. If the IGI record has a batch number, but does not have a call number, contact Family History Library Support for assistance in obtaining the call number.

Printout Call Number and Type
Records in the IGI that were obtained through the Extraction program will also have a printout call number. Typically, this is a microfilm number. When the extraction work was completed, the information was hand written on forms that were later entered into the IGI. Subsequently, the extraction forms were microfilmed.