Kickstart your family history research in 2026

We are pleased to announce that the Family History ACT Library will reopen on Tuesday 13 January, and we are kicking off the new year with a busy and interesting program of meetings, special interest groups, and training sessions.

January offers something for everyone – whether you are just starting out, tackling a stubborn research problem, or looking to sharpen your research skills. Members are encouraged to check their calendars, set aside the time, and register now for the following events.

Coffee and Chat – Smashing Brick Walls: Friday 16 January | Zoom-only

Our popular Coffee and Chat returns with an informal, round-table style Zoom meeting for members.

Topic: Tools and Techniques for Smashing Brick Walls

What tips, tools, and techniques have helped you solve stubborn research problems? This session is all about sharing solutions, brainstorming alternative strategies, and exploring new angles that might chip away at your brick wall. Come along ready to listen, share, and be inspired by the collective wisdom of fellow researchers.

Pauline’s Parlour: Sunday 18 January | 11.00am | In person

Pauline’s Parlour is an informal, friendly, in-person meeting for members seeking help with their genealogy research problems. These round-table chats focus on practical problem-solving: looking at different websites, exploring research materials, discussing how to use what is found, and sharing ideas on a wide range of topics.

New members are most welcome.

English & Welsh Special Interest Group: Thursday 22 January | 7.30pm | Hybrid meeting

The English & Welsh SIG welcomes members with an interest in English or Welsh genealogy.

Topic: Life Downstairs

Do you have an ancestor who worked as a domestic servant in England or Wales? Floss will introduce the topic, after which members are invited to share stories of servants in their families and discuss sources, records, and research approaches that can bring these lives to light.

Australian Special Interest Group: Sunday 25 January | Zoom

The Australian SIG meets via Zoom for members researching Australian ancestors.

Topic: Birth, Death and Marriage Records in Australia

This session will focus on how and where to find online indexed records across the Australian states. Therese Lynch will demonstrate the use of the Victorian Births, Deaths and Marriages online indexes, showing how these can kickstart research and provide valuable clues for further investigation.

Library Practice – Practical Procedures in the Library: Monday 26 January | In person

This hands-on training session is designed to help members explore the FHACT Library and make the best possible use of its resources. You will learn about many of our lesser used but highly valuable resources, including:

• Using the new scanner
• Tips for using library computers
• FCER and Digger CDs
• Subscription websites, including the British Newspaper Archive

If you have been meaning to attend a library training session, now is the time. This practical workshop will help you start the year with confidence and make the most of everything the library has to offer.

With the library reopening and a strong program of talks, chats, and training sessions, January is the perfect time to reconnect, refresh your skills, and kickstart your research for the year ahead. We look forward to welcoming you — online and in person — throughout the month.