The National Archives at Chicago is looking for volunteers to assist patrons with family history research in our Public Access Computer Room. Primary responsibilities include introducing new genealogists and first time patrons to resources available through the National Archives at Chicago and answering genealogical questions. Using your own experience, teach patrons to navigate family history sources and help them work through “brick walls” in their research. This is an excellent opportunity to network with other genealogists and expand your own research.

We are seeking individuals with the following traits: patience, research skills, and willingness to share information; basic internet and computer skills; and knowledge of Ancestry.com, Fold3.com, and FamilySearch.org. Training on National Archives specific resources will be provided, and we can arrange for a new volunteer to shadow a current volunteer for the first few weeks of volunteer service. 

The National Archives at Chicago is located at 7358 S. Pulaski in Chicago and is open to the public Monday to Friday from 8AM to 4PM. Ideally, volunteers commit to helping on a weekly basis, but people willing to commit to as little as one day a month will be considered.

Professional genealogists would not be able to work for pay while volunteering with the National Archives.

Interested candidates should contact Sarah at 773-948-9001 or Chicago.archives@nara.gov.