computer programs at FamilySearch Centers
I have recently moved from Utah to Idaho. I was looking forward to going to the FamilySearch center to access computer programs like Newspaper.com or archivdigital.se. When I went to the center for something else I asked about these programs and they said they weren't available because they had a cost to them.
I thought that one of the perks of going to the center was to access these programs that cost money. I guess the focus is to encourage us to stay home, because I can certainly get the free programs at home. This makes me sad, because I now have to figure out how to afford these programs on a retirement budget.
So as I see it the focus of the center is to offer help (which is good), have great machines to help us scan pictures, videos, etc., and offer classes. But help in research past the basics is pretty much up to us.
When I was in Utah these programs were at the FamilySearch centers. I guess I was living in a bubble and it is different outside of Utah.
Lori
Answers
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@MerrittLoriann1 You may have received a reply from someone who was not well-informed about the operations of FSCs. If your location is in a small stake, the volunteers may not have needed to know about the Portal and access to the genealogy websites.
I would insist - asking to speak with the Director or Tech Support person. I've visited quite a few FSCs across the US, and the knowledge level varies greatly.
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Family Search Centers have access to the premium websites. Not just in Utah but world wide. You can access the premium websites in any meeting house on your own laptop even if they do not have a Family Search Center.
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As Quint says, with the proviso that you do have to install the portal on your laptop.
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This FamilySearch Wiki page lists the premium websites which are available
ArkivDigital, described as the largest private provider of Swedish Church Records and other historical records online, is one the list http://www.arkivdigital.net although the URL you have quoted is a bit different, so that should be available to you.
Unfortunately, for Newspapers.com - Institutional Version it is stated "Only available at select locations" so perhaps you may have been correctly advised that this website is not available at your new location.
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You can go into the FS Wiki and type FS portal and get a list of what is currently in FSC's. It can and does change from time to time.
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It can and does change, @KathyMiller1, but it seems the OP was told that center has no access.
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Why don't all the Family Search Centers have access to Newspapers.com? We have access to Newspaper Archive which is wonderful, but there are newspapers on one site that are not available on the other site.
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I believe that contract changed a year or so ago. It's only available in SLC, I believe, not at any FSC.
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I am a FamilySearch Center Support service missionary. All FamilySearch Centers have premium genealogy websites available for guests to use for free. Newspapers.com and Newspaper Archive are available depending on the location of the FamilySearch Center. If a center does not have one, it does have the other. If center staff answer differently, ask to speak with the director. If the center is having difficulty accessing these sites they need to call FamilySearch Center Support to have the technicians troubleshoot the center's portal site and get it working again. Center directors or staff should call FamilySearch Center support when anything on the center computers are not working as they should. Hope this helps.
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Wow! Thanks for all the responses. When I go to the Center I'll ask about the portal and will make sure one of the newspaper sites are available.
You guys are amazing!😀
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