Family history
Finding what you want
Specialist State Library of Queensland family history staff provide a statewide information service for those needing help with their family history. Useful resources for family history research can be found in the State Library South Bank Collections catalogue.
Check our frequently asked questions on family history.
Using the microform collections
A large number of family history resources and indexes are available on microfilm or microfiche. Most of the microform collection is now available on open access.
Some of the few important microform collections shelved in the Micrographics/family history area, which the public can easily access, include:
- Courier Mail, Queenslander and Telegraph (Brisbane) newspapers
- Maryborough Chronicle and Rockhampton Morning Bulletin newspapers
- Queensland, New South Wales and Victorian Post Office Directories
- Australian immigration and shipping records
- Queensland and New South Wales Police Gazettes
- Tithe Applotment Books for Ireland
The State Library has a number of microform viewing machines, some of which can copy images. Copies cost $0.10 per A4 page and $0.20 per A3 page. Images can also be saved to memory stick and CD-ROM or emailed home.
Using the CD-ROM collections
There is a wide range of useful information on CD-ROMs for family historians to take advantage of and these are available at the Family History microform reading room desk. Check our list of Family History CD-ROMs or search the State Library South Bank Collections catalogue.
A normal search session using a CD is one hour, although if no one has booked or is waiting patrons may stay longer.
Copying
All copying must observe the Copyright Act, 1968 [new window http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_act/ca1968133/]
Visiting us
The family history area is located in the Micrographics area on Level 3 of the South Bank building. Visitors to the library can browse through the extensive family and local history reference collection and view indexes and newspapers on microfilm and microfiche. Staff can assist you in locating resources and using the microfilm equipment.
Visitors who live outside of Brisbane may reserve a microform machine in advance for half a day.
More information
If you have a family history enquiry, you can contact us in any of the following ways:
For general enquiries:
- Ask at your local Queensland public library
- Other libraries [new window http://www.nla.gov.au/libraries/]
Last updated: 13th November 2007
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