Heritage Helpdesk FAQs: Tech tips for researching smarter in the digital age

Increase your genealogical genius with the local branch of the New Zealand Society of Genealogists.

Join us for a lively and practical workshop morning designed to boost your research skills and confidence. Hosted by the Whanganui Branch of the NZ Society of Genealogists and the Alexander Heritage and Research Library, this event tackles some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) our genealogy experts and heritage librarians hear.

FREE. Bookings required. RSVP to heritage@whanganuilibrary.com.

This session is brought to you by Whanganui District Library as part of Techweek, a national celebration of technology and innovation.

AGENDA

Plenary Session (10.30-11am)

Don’t let the data swamp you! How to use Microsoft Excel to organise your family DNA matches.

3 concurrent rotating sessions (20mins each 11-12pm) will answer the following FAQs:

1)     How do I use the Alexander Library microfilm reader to read old newspapers?

2)     How do I use the Card Catalogue and browse at Ancestry.com?

3)     How do I join a Microsoft Teams meeting? So many interesting talks and meetings are held around the country (and globe!) via Teams – don’t miss out, come and learn how to connect!

Through a series of short, rotating, interactive sessions, you’ll pick up useful tips and techniques to make the most of digital tools in your family history or general research. Each session is designed to be quick, engaging, and easy to follow—so you’re guaranteed to walk away with new skills you can start using right away.

You are welcome to attend all sessions, or drop in for the topics that interest you most and break away to continue your own research if inspiration strikes.

Come along for a fun, informative, and hands-on morning of learning!

Please note: Bringing your own device (laptop or tablet preferable) is essential, so that we can workshop any problems that might arise when you’re at home, or on your own!

The New Zealand Society of Genealogists provides educational opportunities and research resources for the development of knowledge, skills and practice in family history, genealogy and whakapapa for members and the wider community.

The Whanganui branch meets in the Alexander Library at 6.45pm the second Monday of each month, February - December.

For more information, email whanganui@genealogy.org.nz.

Techweek is a nationwide celebration of technology and innovation - a week‑long series of events that celebrate how technology can be used to create a better world. For more information, see the Techweek website: https://techweek.co.nz/.