Content
About this webinar
Did you mark your wish list in the Sears Christmas catalog as a child? FamilySearch Catalog lists everything available in the FamilySearch Library. Many of these items are also available online, at FamilySearch Centers and Affiliated Libraries. Items include books, online materials, microfilm, microfiche, and publications. This session will go through the steps on how to search by location, surname, title, author, subject, or keywords, and combinations of these. Learn to find where the items are located and what type of media they are stored in. Search online in film images, and adjust their image or zoom in and out. When you find records for your research, mark each to view later in a to-do list of items which may be printed to the library when you got in person. See how the FamilySearch Wiki will help find records for an area anywhere. Just like the Christmas Catalog had something for every member of the family, this catalog has something for everyone, no matter where you are researching.
About the speaker
Key points and insights
In her engaging and highly practical webinar, “FamilySearch Catalog: The Sears Christmas Catalog for Genealogists,” professional genealogist Lianne Kruger drew a fun and fitting comparison between the joy of flipping through childhood toy catalogs and the powerful discovery potential of the FamilySearch Catalog. Delivered during the 24-Hour Genealogy Marathon, this session demystified the newly updated catalog interface and provided attendees with expert tips for navigating its vast holdings. Kruger, who specializes in Canadian and homesteading records, turned a complex tool into an accessible, indispensable resource for genealogists of all skill levels.
Key Takeaways:- Search Smarter Using Multiple Methods: Kruger demonstrated how to search by place, surname, title, author, subject, call number, and keywords. Each approach reveals different results—even when using the same terms—making it crucial to try multiple paths to uncover hidden gems.
- Decode Access Icons and Restrictions: Viewers learned how to interpret key symbols—cameras (digital images), magnifying glasses (indexes), and camera icons with exclamation points (access restrictions). Logging into a free FamilySearch account often removes some restrictions, and Kruger showed how to find local FamilySearch Centers or affiliate libraries for broader access.
- Create Custom To-Do and Print Lists: The new catalog allows users to add items to a print list, which doubles as a research to-do list. This feature saves time and ensures nothing is forgotten—especially useful when planning research trips to Salt Lake City or affiliated facilities.
Don’t miss the syllabus included with this session—it’s packed with links, screenshots, and step-by-step guidance. Whether building a family tree from scratch or chasing down elusive ancestors, Kruger’s techniques will help you search confidently and efficiently.
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Comments (38)
Though I've been researching for years, I have been intimidated about FamilySearch. Searching from a person's profile can be very unproductive. This is a great overview on how to use FamilySearch properly and get results.
Another very good webinar, good information
Very helpful! Answered a lot of questions I had. Using the site will be easier and, I am sure, more rewarding now. Thank you
Outstanding guidance on using the catalog. This a fantastic block of instruction for new AND OLDER USERS OF FS
Very informative. Even as a regular FamilySearch user I learned some new tricks and tips.
Great information and hints! Thank you.
Great information and tips, learned alot!
Wish I'd had this overview prior to RootsTech and my first visit to the FHL :).