A local branch of the biggest genealogical library in the world is located in Newton Aycliffe.  The Family History Centre at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Shafto Way is part of a global network of over 4,600 centres.
It provides access to the records of over 3 billion  people in over 100 countries.  The centre provides free access to subscription genealogical websites.
For a small fee, patrons can also access the vast circulating collection of the Church, which includes 2.5 million microfilms and microfiche (the centre has microfilm and microfiche readers as well as computer workstations).
It’s run entirely by volunteers. Liz Shearer the director and her team, Christine Clayton, Pat Cliff, Brenda Lodge, Sandy Sanderson and Kevin Wallis are happy to help anyone with their family history research.
The centre is free, and open to the public on Tuesdays 10a.m.–4p.m. & Thursdays 10a.m.–4p.m. also 6:30p.m.–9p.m.
A telephone appointment is recommended, since workstations are limited; phone 313632. Further information is on the website: https://familysearch.org/learn/wiki/en/Newton_Aycliffe_England_Family_History_Center
The Church of Jesus Christ has long been known for its interest in family history, which it sponsors through FamilySearch – easily the largest genealogy organisation in the world.  Its vast record collections are made available through the central Family History Library in Salt Lake City and many branches, like the one in Newton Aycliffe.
Its Website, FamilySearch.org is one of the most popular genealogical resources ever created. The statistics are staggering. There are over 2 billion names searchable online; the site receives over 10 million hits per day from over 3 million visitors per month, and since its launch the site has received over 150 million visitors.
Initially it was accessible only by Church members, but now it’s available to the general public, free of charge – why not have a look?
Do you know who you are?  Would you like some help finding out?  Now you know where to go!
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