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SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH — The Family History Library of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced
today the release of two new research products that will help family history enthusiasts succeed in their quest to learn
about their ancestors. A new introductory workbook, How Do I Start My Family History?, and a new line of research
guides, Finding Records of Your Ancestors, feature easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions, colorful graphics and
tear-out worksheets.
How Do I Start My Family History? is a free workbook designed to help those just beginning to gather and organize their
family's genealogy. It replaces the library's popular booklet Where Do I Start? Users will find simple instructions,
examples and 8.5-by-11-inch removable pedigree and family group worksheets to help them capture what they already
know about their families.
Finding Records of Your Ancestors, Part A: Denmark, 1834 to 1900 is the first in a new series of publications that
represents a new direction for the library. The guides simplify the research process to increase the probability of
success. They are designed for those who have already gathered some information from their home and family,
organized what they have on pedigree and family group forms like those found in How Do I Start My
Family History? and
are ready to search public records.
People generally perceive family history research as time consuming, complex and difficult. Veteran researchers usually
credit someone for personally helping them a time or two in the beginning. The goal of the new guides, Finding Records
of Your Ancestors, is to take the guesswork out of genealogical research. Publications coordinator NaDine Timothy
explains: "In the past we have taken an encyclopedia-type approach by listing every single record that is available. Now
we are trying to simplify the process and give users a specific, proven strategy to use." Timothy adds: "One thing that
has frustrated many family history enthusiasts is the need to master quickly a whole new set of skills and concepts to
be successful. They feel overwhelmed by what they don't know, and that can stifle their desire to learn more about their
ancestors. The new guides will give them key information to compensate for that research skill deficit and enable them
to have success."
Finding Records of Your Ancestors guides are geared toward people who have little genealogical experience and may
not have time to do extensive research. In an inviting workbook style, Part A: Denmark colorfully outlines the steps and
tools needed to find one's Danish ancestors. Users will learn where to start, how to find and use Danish records, and
what unique elements to look for in the records. The 8.5-by-11-inch booklets are more visual and user friendly than other
family history how-to publications.
"We wanted to take beginners by the hand and walk them through the research process," says Kay Merkley,
instructional designer for the Finding Records of Your Ancestors series. "It's not an easy process at first, but these
guides provide a strategy not available before on how to go from one record to another. The guides provide expert advice
every step of the way."
The guide for Denmark is divided into two parts. Finding Records of Your Ancestors, Part A: Denmark, 1834 to 1900
covers the period from 1834 to 1900. Part B: Denmark, available in 2002, will cover additional time periods and research
strategies. Another planned publication will help researchers read Danish records.
The guide explains different types of records in Denmark and instructs the user on when and how to use specific
records. A real-life case study allows readers to see for themselves how the research process works. Expert search
tips, including tips on how to use the Family History Library catalog, are included. Also included are maps, historical
time lines, and background on Danish naming customs. Beyond outlining a strategy for getting started, the guide offers
instructions on more advanced research, including addresses and Web sites for more information.
When tested last year with family history novices interested in Danish research, all test participants commented that the
new guide made the genealogy research process much easier to understand and apply. Class participant Marilyn Moore
said: "I'm excited about this information. It gives me a solid method to follow as I begin to learn about Danish records."
Additional guides in the Finding Records of Your Ancestors series will be published in 2002. Research guides are being
prepared for the British Isles, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Norway, Poland, Spain,
Sweden and Switzerland (for German language records). Additional guides will follow, including research assistance for
African-Americans, American Indians and Pacific Islanders.
Both publications announced today are also available at Church distribution centers worldwide and can be ordered by calling
toll free 1-800-537-5971 or on the Internet. How Do I Start My Family History? is free
(Church distribution center item number 32916).
Finding Records of Your Ancestors, Part A: Denmark is $4.50
(the Church distribution center item number 36577). Please use the correct item numbers when placing your order.
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