Genealogy Research
Every family has a story. Discover your ancestors’ incredible journeys through research at the Lee County Library System. Explore the origins and history of your relatives with our print, microfilm and digital resources. Get help from our trained staff who provide assistance to skilled and novice researchers, alike. |
Getting Started
“Getting Started” in genealogy can mean many things depending on the person. Today may be the first time you have looked into building your family tree. You might have worked on and off collecting information, and are having trouble pulling it all together. Even experts have difficulty when learning about new material, resources, and techniques…and we are here to help.
This study guide introduces patrons to the field of genealogy. The Fort Myers Regional Library offers a number of excellent “how-to” books on the subject of genealogical research.
This study guide is designed to provide a basic overview of the main types of records available for genealogical research.
Stay connected with the latest genealogy resources, programs, and research tips from Lee County Library System. Our Genealogy Newsletter delivers updates on workshops, special collections, local history discoveries, and tools to help you uncover your family story. Sign up today and make the most of your genealogy journey.
Check out our online calendar of events!
World Class Genealogy Room
Our genealogy room is located on the second floor of the
Fort Myers Regional Library. Directions to the branch as well as open hours are listed on the webpage.
The Genealogy Room houses the largest print genealogy and local history collection in Southwest Florida. Located on the second floor, it offers a dedicated, quiet research space equipped with free printed research forms and reference guides.
Extended one-on-one help sessions are available by appointment with experienced genealogists and subject specialists. This free service is only offered at the Fort Myers Regional Library.
The Fort Myers Regional Library is a
FamilySearch Library Affiliate. This means that genealogy researchers have access to
FamilySearch’s extensive digitized microfilm records. Access to the enhanced version of FamilySearch or any of the other databases is available from any computer at Fort Myers Regional Library. Access, however, is not available within the Young Adult or Children's areas.
Download the Fort Myers Collection Guide to learn about our genealogy research services, including access to the enhanced version of FamilySearch available exclusively through FamilySearch Library Affiliates like Fort Myers Regional Library. Library Provided Electronic Resources
Bibliographies, Reference Guides, and How-To Guides
Study Guides and Newsletter Articles
We have more than 300 study guides and newsletter articles designed for beginners, intermediate, and advanced level researchers. The study guides all contain bibliographic resources, both print and online, for follow-up research. Electronic copies are free upon request. Hardcopies are available for $.10 per page.
More Genealogy Sources
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American Ancestors - American Ancestors is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people discover, preserve, and share their family history. As the public-facing brand of the New England Historic Genealogical Society, it provides access to genealogy records, expert research services, educational programs, and resources for family history researchers around the world.
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Lee County Genealogy Society - The Lee County Genealogical Society (LCGS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing genealogical research and education in Southwest Florida. Through educational programs, workshops, special interest groups, and preservation projects, LCGS helps individuals discover their family history while fostering collaboration among genealogy enthusiasts of all experience levels.
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National Archives (NARA) - The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) preserves and provides access to the federal records of the United States government. Its extensive collections—including census records, military service records, immigration records, and other historical documents—make it an essential resource for family history and genealogical research.
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