San Rafael California FamilySearch Center

Class Schedule

 * Discovering Your Roots: Introduction to Genealogical Research Methods, taught by David Williams College of Marin Community Education (Kentfield) Sep 12 - Oct 17, Mondays only, 2:40 - 4:00 pm (Register) Discovering Your Roots: Introduction to genealogical Research Methods Learn the basics of genealogical and family history research. We will cover definitions, methodologies, forms used, research repositories, the internet, and software. We will discuss documents and citations, as well as the organization of information and archival of documents. You will be invited to share what your research yields, not only about who your ancestors were, but also the political and social issues involving their activities. You will also be encouraged to write your own history or memoir of an interesting family member as a legacy for future generations. Experts in certain aspects of genealogical research methods will present at class. David Williams has been involved in Genealogical research for over 20 years and is a Board member and past President of the Marin County Genealogical society.

Collections

 * Family History Library Catalog: This center has the ability to order any of the films and fiche available through the Family History Library Catalog.
 * Lots of books, especially books about the history of various local areas
 * many purchased CDs of records that aren't yet on the internet
 * A catalog of all of the books, periodicals, CD's and extended loan microfilms and microfiche held by the San Rafael Family History Center is available online
 * San Rafael Family History Center Catalog search page
 * Bay Area Family History Centers Catalog Search Page

NOTE : When using the link to the Bay Area Family History Centers Catalog you are searching the catalogs of 15 family history centers. When you find a resource of interest, be sure to click on the "Show Copies" tab to see which location has the book, film. microfiche or CD you are interested in.

Databases and Software

 * FHC Portal: This center has access to the Family History Center Portal page which gives free access in the center to premium family history software and websites that generally charge for subscriptions.

Hardware and Equipment

 * 12 Computers, updated regularly
 * 6 printers
 * scanner / microfilm scanner / microfiche scanner
 * microfilm and microfiche readers

Staff Research Specialties

 * There is at all times a volunteer on staff from the Marin County Genealogical Society
 * Multiple professional genealogists and researchers will be here when you come and are excited to help
 * We have access to many/all languages

Resources in the Local Area

 * Marin County Genealogical Society (link)