Many of the collections listed on this portal will contain information of interest to genealogists and family historians. Items such as rental ledgers, wages and salaries books and employee records can often contain references to people whose lives have otherwise gone largely unrecorded. Many archival repositories in Ireland have limited numbers of staff and resources and it is not always possible for staff in the repositories listed in this portal to answer family history queries or to give guidance on how to begin genealogical research. However, the National Archives of Ireland and the National Library of Ireland offer genealogical advisory services. A number of institutions also offer very comprehensive online guides which will aid any researcher with this type of query.

The Archives and Records Association, Ireland maintains the website www.learnaboutarchives.ie designed to provide a practical and interesting online information service for the general public (but more especially educators and their students) on archival material and archive services in Ireland. It provides an excellent introduction to the rules and procedures in place when accessing and handling archival material.

To research your family in their county of origin contact the local archive or local library directly. Contact details are available on this website or on www.learnaboutarchives.ie