New genealogy resources, such as this microfilm reader pictured, are now available.

Due to increased interest in the community, the Prendergast Library is offering expanded resources for patrons looking to learn more about their ancestry or local history.

Every Wednesday from 2-4 p.m., patrons are welcome to stop by for our weekly Genealogy Lab. This program allows patrons to conduct their genealogical research in a group setting, with library staff available for research assistance.

In addition to this lab, patrons can visit the library at any time to browse cemetery records and historic newspapers using microfilm, look at Jamestown High School yearbooks, city directories, and genealogical and family histories. The library’s print genealogy resources are newly organized and available for public use.

The library also offers free access to genealogy databases online in the library. Patrons can use Ancestry.com and HeritageQuest for free in the library; HeritageQuest can also be accessed from home at no charge. Additionally, Jamestown area newspapers from 1826-1902 are available online. Visit www.prendergastlibrary.org/genealogy/ to see the complete collection of online resources and to learn more about genealogical research.