I was today years old when I went to my first library lock-in. What a fun experience!

Hosted by the Grand Rapids History Center and the Western Michigan Genealogical Society (WMGS), the Grand Rapids Public Library was open from 6-10pm last Friday evening exclusively to those of us who had registered in advance. I arrived about 5:15 ’cause I’m old and that’s what we do. I asked at the genealogy desk where one would print their new-found treasures and chose a seat near the printers.

I’d actually planned to save my findings on a flash drive, but realized about halfway to the library that I’d left that guy at home. In my defense, I had printed 100 index pages from a Chicago death certificates database on FamilySearch which, as it turned out, I didn’t need. Don’t judge, remember this was my first ever library lock in.

Previously, when I’d requested documents through the no-longer-in-existence FamilySearch library look-up service, they’d asked for DGS numbers or film numbers or a combination of information from the index pages. At the library I simply entered names and dates on FamilySearch and chose among the search findings.

Not every image I’d hoped for was available. And there was a bit of technology-induced frustration at the beginning of my visit. Good thing I arrived early! However the library staff was really helpful and there were numerous volunteers from WMGS on hand as well. Also, I was not the only first-timer, so we newbies gave each other encouragement and support. There were dozens of us amiably sharing two printers. In a short time, it became obvious who was working with Fold3, who was searching passenger lists, and so on. There were smiles and laughter as we traded printouts.

WMGS thoughtfully provided nibbles and beverages in a nearby meeting room. It was a convenient spot for hydration, a bit of sustenance, and an opportunity to chat with other researchers.

As you can imagine, time passed quickly. I didn’t make it through all the names on my list, but I did succeed in finding quite a bit of new-to-me information. Remember, new records are being added to our favorite sources all the time, so it’s worth looking through them every now and then.

Back at home the next day I alphabetized the 70 records I’d printed. I’m eager to work my way through these new treasures. And I’m already looking forward to my next library lock-in.