I have heard from several of you that training in genealogy resources would be much appreciated. This is very possible. I would be happy to come to your libraries and offer workshops on specific resources or even a “getting started with your family history” session and follow up sessions to that. Don’t hesitate to call or write 
In the mean time I thought I would point out a few other resources for personal self-directed study. Anyone doing Family History soon learns that the prime resource in this area is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often called Mormons. As a product of their religious beliefs they house the largest repository of genealogical information on the planet. They also work diligently to empower people with the ability to do their own family history. They offer several online – free – independent study courses in this area.
One such course is titled Religion 261 and is offered through Brigham Young University’s website. (remember it is free).
They also provide a host of other in depth free online courses!
In an instruction course I took in library school one of my colleagues, Dai Newman, offered a presentation on genealogy sources available from the church. With his permission, I include his slightly modified cheat sheet to those sources here and on the training page of the NLLS website.
The Mormon church also provides “Family History Centers” in many of their church buildings. These facilities are staffed by knowledgeable volunteers who are willing to help with your family history. The facilities often include computers, microfilm readers, and other necessary resources for researching your family history. Again this resource is provided free of charge. I am told that Mormon volunteers at these facilities are instructed by their leaders to refrain from proselytizing. So you need not fear that you’ll be bombarded by missionaries if you choose to take advantage of these great resources.
You’ll have to call the center to confirm their hours of operation.
There are Family History Centers throughout Alberta. You can view a list of these centers here. There are two in Edmonton but it looks like the only one in the NLLS district is in lucky St. Paul.
A Side Note:
You may be scratching your head… Why is this obscure church so interested in genealogy. I’ll let the church answer that question? You can read all about it on their website, Mormon.org
I am sure there are other sources out there. This is your opportunity to add to this post by posting comments – questions. Be brave
Posted by northernlightslibrary 