Family History

Exclusively at the Library

Access ancestry.com and findmypast.com.au for free using library computers or using your device connected to library Wi-Fi.

Getting started with Family History

Have you always wanted to trace your family history but don’t know where to start? Your Library can help you start to trace your family in Australia and overseas, using online databases, books, microfiche, and CDROMs.

Before you start your research, it is advisable to take the following steps:

1. Borrow books

Books on beginning family history research are available from the library.

2. Speak to older members of the family

They can remember earlier family members who are no longer alive and may also have photographs and other memorabilia that will help provide dates and other details.

3. Obtain copies of certificates

Try obtaining birth and marriage certificates for yourself, your parents and possible grandparents. Each certificate enables you to take another step back – from marriage to birth to the previous generation.

4. Record and chart

Keep all of the information you receive and chart relationships for easy reference.

Visit a branch

Family History records are held by the following branches (records vary from branch to branch):

Contact a Family History Librarian