Volunteers are usually trained in the use of equipment, holdings, and basic techniques of research but they are not expected to do research for patrons. They are guides to lead patrons to the various source materials, rather than be research assistants. However, often you will find very qualified research specialists volunteering at a local FHC, and you may have a difficult time keeping them from helping you if they know you are in need of help.

The Monterey FHC has a microfiche and microfilm reader-printer, as well as standard copy machines, so you will be able to make copies of the materials you find. You will be charged for the price of the materials and enough to cover maintenance on the center's machines.

Basic supplies are available, at cost, to help you organize your family. Also available are resources on microfiche of the most commonly-used reference materials such as historical atlases, maps, or gazetteers for various areas of the world. There are two purposes for using the resources of the Family History Center at this time: To find the proper locations for your research, and to conduct a preliminary survey.