If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about your family’s history but don’t know where to start, our experienced volunteers are here to help at Dee Why Library Family History Fridays.

Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said the program, which runs 10am - 4pm on Fridays starting 2 February through to the end of the year, had proved enormously popular in its first year and was anticipating similar success in 2018.

“This innovative program has had great results in helping locals find out about and connect with their family history,” Mayor Regan said.

Local resident and Vietnam veteran Alan Wright knew almost nothing about his family history before coming along to the Council Library initiative.

However, Alan’s search – which started with a single birth certificate – has led to him locating a 91-year-old cousin he didn’t know existed and WWI medals awarded to his ancestors which he plans to wear at future ANZAC Day marches.

He has also traced records back to his great-great-great-grandfather and compiled a huge folder of historical documents, including photographs, about his family.

Alan now spends two days a week at the library making the most of its free access to online ancestry research tools and says he would love to do a course in family history research to help others.

“Look where it can lead you,” Alan said.

Bookings are essential for Family History Fridays. Call 9942 2610 to request a one-hour session with a volunteer or visit northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/library for more information.