The Overton branch of the Clark County Library welcomed workers from the Las Vegas FamilySearch Center on Jan. 29. They were there to offer assistance to local residents interested in finding out more about their family tree.

As more and more people have developed an interest in finding out about their family history, they are discovering that the best resources available are offered free of charge through the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ FamilySearch Centers. The representatives from the Las Vegas center were on hand to help local residents start their family tree and explain the services available to people interested in finding out more about their roots.

Interest in genealogy — part hobby, part detective work — has been quietly booming. Often what started as a simple question turns into a deeper curiosity. Help in discovering your family history is available in-person or through websites and mobile apps. What started as a small society of people working to find their ancestors has grown into a larger organization, mostly as a result of advances in technology.

FamilySearch centers are open to the public and offer access to exclusive records and technology. Staff are trained to help you research and make family discoveries. Each center is unique, but they all offer a space to learn more about your ancestors.

The local FamilySearch center is located in the LDS church at 2555 N. St. Joseph St. They are open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Evening hours are available on Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Services offered include online access to genealogy records, FamilySearch apps, family photo sharing and preservation, family activities, learning resources and research guidance, and DNA education.