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Using the family history collections

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 in the Micrographics area on level 3 of the South Bank building.

Some of the important microform collections shelved in the Micrographics 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 electronic resources

CD-ROMs

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 and databases 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.

Internet access and ancestry.com

There are two Internet computers for family history research located in the Micrographics area on Level 3. An e-services card is needed to access these terminals. Other Internet computers are available throughout the building.

Free access to the ancestry.com site is also available at the State Library of Queensland with your e-services card. Please ask staff for more information.

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 State 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 Brisbane can reserve a microform machine in advance for half a day.