22 December 2021
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As the result of an arrangement between The National Archives and Manchester Central Library, the Manchester & Lancashire FHS Helpdesk will work alongside its Archives+ partners to support researchers during the release of the 1921 Census data for England & Wales on FindMyPast.
In January, Manchester Central Library becomes the Northern Hub for The National Archives, the owners of the data, to make access free to library members at all computers in the building. A similar arrangement will exist in Wales with the National Library of Wales serving as the Welsh Hub.
Reopening after the Christmas break on 6 January, the MLFHS Helpdesk teams will be present in the Local Studies area between 10.30 a.m. and 3.30 p.m. every weekday to assist visitors in their quest to trace their forebears 100 years ago.
Each day a team of typically 3-4 experienced volunteers will work alongside library staff to guide visitors through the FMP website. More will be available during expected busy times.
Free access to the FindMyPast website
Support will consist, among other things, of help to gain free access to the FindMyPast website within the Helpdesk area as well as offering the technical guidance researchers would expect from experienced genealogists.
A committed team of Helpdesk volunteers will be available for the same five hours, each weekday for the remainder of the year, giving guidance and advice to researchers about all aspects of family history and the wealth of resources available in the library. For more details, visit the society's website.
In anticipation of the release, has MLFHS developed a year-long programme of talks, articles, a 1921 timeline with clickable links, blogs and a one-off podcast.
QUICK LINK: LEARN HOW TO EXPLORE THE 1921 CENSUS WITH FAMILY TREE'S CELEBRATORY 1921 CENSUS CONFERENCE
(Report courtesy Manchester & Lancashire FHS)