We are a primary source for French Canadian research and have a large selection of other data depending on the source. For example, state vital records, church records, and funeral home records would include all records and not just French Canadian.
Yes. AFGS is an affiliate of the Family History Library. There are a number of volunteers who can help you to research different nationalities.
Most vital records are in English. Quebec microfilm records are mostly in French or Latin. Normally, someone is at the library that can translate for you.
Volunteers are normally available to help with your visit.
There are volunteers who will show you the steps to access the microfilms and how to search within them.
Check our resources section.
AFGS has free Wi-Fi available. Notebooks, laptops, tablets, hand held scanners, cameras are allowed in the library (no flash). Cell phones may be brought into the library, however, please be considerate of other researchers and either turn off the phone or place it in silent mode. Cell phone conversations are not allowed in the library.
Sorry but no item can be plugged into our computers.
Yes, however if it is a large group (over 5) we would appreciate notification ahead of time to make sure that we have researchers to help.
Info can be found on the website under "Volunteer."
Please contact Janice Burkhart, Society librarian, to discuss the materials you wish to donate. We will not accept donation of books, computers or other materials without prior approval.
The Franco-American Heritage Center has an elevator and all levels of the building are accessible.
Smoking is prohibited anywhere in the AFGS Franco-American Heritage Center.
AFGS members have full use of the library. For non-members the fee is $5.00 per visit.
You can join AFGS here, where you can join online or download a form to mail in.
We have an online store where you are able to order items, or fill out the form online, print it and mail it in.
We use the Spark Pay Service for ordering from this website. This offers online ordering security by using this system which is simple and straightforward. (Your browser must support secure ordering.)
Please see the Spark Pay Privacy Statement for more information.
Food or beverages including bottled water are not allowed in the library area. The lunchroom is located off the main lobby adjacent to the lockers. There is a refrigerator and microwave available for your use. While we do not offer food or beverages on site, there are restaurants nearby.
We will make every effort to accommodate members who live outside of the Rhode Island area. Please contact AFGS at least one week before your arrival. Tell us the dates and times you plan to be here and a phone number where you can be reached while you travel
A number of places are available. Please view tourblackstone.com for a list of available hotels in the region.
AFGS is located in the Blackstone Heritage Corridor and a number of interesting places are available including the Museum of Work & Culture.
For a list of other sites of interests throughout Woonsocket and Rhode Island's Blackstone Valley, visit tourblackstone.com.
If there is a question you would like to ask which is not covered here, please use the inquiry form in the “Contact Us” section.
