Interested in your family history and ready to move beyond what you can learn from your relatives? Meet the experts at the Barrie Public Library Online Genealogy Fair. This 2-day virtual event invites curious beginners and experienced genealogists to explore a wide range of topics and research areas. Discover how DNA can provide clues to uncover your ancestors and their forgotten stories of land and life.
Join us Friday evening, October 23 and throughout the day on Saturday October 24, with Zoom conference sessions and video presentations. The virtual Genealogy Fair will feature expert speakers and highlight relevant topics and Library resources. Bring your research questions and get answers during our Q & A online sessions. Registration for the BPL Online Genealogical Fair is now open, review our schedule and plan a weekend of learning from the comfort of your home.
We have a fantastic selection of topics scheduled, whether exploring DNA discussions with Mags Gaulden of Grandma’s Genes or the rich history of African Canadian Genealogy with local expert, Janie Cooper-Wilson. A big bonus for researchers this year is free at home access to the Ancestry database available until 2021 – so everyone can easily and safely search from home. It is interesting to note that genealogy as a hobby has grown substantially, with more time to unravel the mysteries of the past than ever before. Given the popularity of the topic, the Library has expanded the event to include two days of online presentations. Connecting learners with information is where the library shines, visit our Genealogy, Ancestry and Local History page to get started.
Nancy Leveque, Chair of the Simcoe County Branch, Ontario Genealogical Society and member of the BPL Genealogy Fair Planning Team, is proud of the OGS’s 20+-year partnership with the Library and excited to be a part of this event. The Fair is open to everyone, which engages the community at large, and the speakers attending are leaders in their areas of expertise.
Too busy on the weekend to attend? View a selection of the Genealogy Fair video presentations by visiting our Program Portal for learning on demand.