Family Search Day Workshop

Bill Barrett, retired professor of Computer Science at Brigham Young University and world expert in computer genealogical research, will be the keynote speaker at the Mesquite Family Search Day on Saturday, October 17 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located, at 110 N. Arrowhead Lane, Mesquite. The workshop begins at 8:00 and includes classes, family history displays as well as a continental breakfast. The event goes until noon and is free to the public.

Barrett's keynote address will give attendees an overview of the many advanced tools and technology now available to assist folks in their search for ancestors while his classes will focus on specific tools and their uses.

Mr. Barrett has been instrumental in developing computer applications that speed genealogical research for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including digitizing billions of microfilm records, establishing the forerunner of RootsTech – the world’s largest genealogical research workshop – and the creation of the Family History Technology Lab at Brigham Young University, whose applications are available for public use.

Other classes include using AI (artificial intelligence) as a genealogical research assistant, organizing your research efforts “From Hard Copies to Digital”, using the Get Involved app, making family history research fun, and an overview of the resources available and the local Family History Center in Mesquite.