Library Affiliate Research Status
Family Search Microfilm/Fiche Rental Program
Frequently Asked Questions
The Fort Myers-Lee County Public Library has been granted full status as a Family Search Affiliate Library. This privilege allows the library to offer their genealogy patrons access to the microfilmed holdings of the Family History Library in Salt Lake City which houses the largest genealogical library in the world. Through the FamilySearch Affiliate Libraries, they make many of their holdings available in microform and microfiche to genealogy researchers on a loan basis, for a processing fee of $5.50 per roll of microfilm and $0.15 per sheet of microfiche.
Another added benefit involves the quality of images on microfilm and fiche products. The Family History Library, in conjunction with the FamilySearch Beta Project, Footnote.com and Ancestry.com are in the gradual process of digitalizing records and reimaging older records that were microfilmed prior to the 1990’s. This will eventually result in the creation of new microfilm rolls with improved image quality versus their earlier predecessors.
With a few exceptions, library patrons will have access to most genealogical materials in microfilm or fiche formats. However, there are some limitations which the library must abide by in terms of access:
- The Fort Myers-Lee County Public Library are unable to borrow any materials in print format.
- Due to space limitations, the Fort Myers-Lee County Public Library is unable to retain microfilms indefinitely as was the case previously when the local Family History Centers were operating in Naples, Fort Myers, and Port Charlotte.
That decision may be revisited upon completion of the library's new building scheduled for late summer of 2013.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a member of the LDS Church to order microfilm?
No.The Mormon Church makes their library materials and online databases freely available to everyone, regardless of religious affiliation.
Can I order microforms by email or phone?
No. You must make an appointment to meet with a genealogy volunteer at the Fort Myers-Lee County Public Library to place an order.
Can I order the microforms at another library?
No. Microform orders may only be placed at the Fort Myers-Lee County Public Library.
Can the microforms be sent to another library?
No. FamilySearch Affiliate guidelines stipulate that microforms remain at the Fort Myers-Lee County Public Library.
What is the cost to rent microfilm and microfiche?
The cost is $5.50/roll for microfilm and $0.15/sheet for microfiche.
Can I pay for the microfilm with a credit card or a check?
No. Credit and debit cards are not accepted. Payment must be made by cash or check.
Do I have to pay for the microform rental when I place the order?
Yes. Payment must accompany the order.
Do I need a Lee County library card to order microforms?
No. Possession of a Lee County library card is not a requirement.
Will someone be available to help me order the microforms?
Yes. A genealogy volunteer is available by appointment to assist library patrons in the selection of FamilySearch microform materials. Appointments may be made in person at the Fort Myers Library reference desk or by calling
479-4636.
Why do I need to come in to the library to place a microfilm order?
Placing an order with the assistance of a genealogy volunteer helps to ensure that you order only those microforms that are likely to contain the information you are seeking. Payment by cash or check is due at the time of the order.
After I order a microform, how long will it be before I receive it?
It usually takes 3-4 weeks to receive microforms after they are ordered.
How will I know when the microform is available for me to use?
A volunteer will notify you when the microform material is available.
Where do I go to pick up the microform(s)?
Your FamilySearch microform(s) will be held under your name at the Fort Myers-Lee County Public Library Reference desk. All microforms/ microfiches are for in-library use only and may not be removed from the Fort Myers-Lee County Public Library.
How long can I keep microform(s)?
Microfilm will be held for your use at the Fort Myers-Lee County Library Reference desk for about three weeks before it must either be returned or renewed. Microfiche is loaned for an indefinite period and will be retained by the Fort Myers-Lee County Public Library.
What if I’m not finished with the microfilm by the date it’s due?
Microfilm may be renewed up to two times at a cost of $5.50 per renewal.
What if I order the wrong microfilm?
While we are happy to assist, you are ultimately responsible for the selection of microform(s) to be ordered. The Fort Myers-Lee County Public Library will not reimburse for rental costs when the microform does not contain the hoped for information.
Compiled by Bryan L. Mulcahy, Reference Librarian, Fort Myers-Lee County Public Library,
8 February 2011.
|
