Unofficial Guide to FamilySearch.org

Master the #1 Free Genealogy Website!

Discover your ancestry on FamilySearch.org, the world's largest free genealogy website. This fully-updated in-depth user guide shows you how to find your family in the site's databases of more than 3.5 billion names and millions of digitized historical records spanning the globe. Learn how to maximize all of FamilySearch.org's research tools—including hard-to-find features—to extend your family tree in America and the old country.


In this book, you'll find:

• Step-by-step strategies to craft search queries that find ancestors fast
• Practical pointers for locating your ancestors in record collections that aren't searchable
• Detailed overviews of FamilySearch.org's major U.S. collections, with helpful record explanations to inform your research
• Guidance for using FamilySearch.org's vast record collections from Europe, Canada, Mexico and 100-plus countries around the world
• Tips for creating and managing your family tree on FamilySearch.org
• Secrets to utilizing user-submitted genealogies, the site’s revamped Digital Library with digitized family history books, and the FamilySearch catalog of 2.4 million offline resources.
• Expanded coverage of the FamilySearch mobile app, and updates on FamilySearch-compatible services and apps
• A new chapter on accessing records on-site at the Family History Library, local FamilySearch Centers and affiliate libraries
• Worksheets and checklists to track your research progress
• Illustrated step-by-step examples teach you exactly how to apply these tips and techniques to your own research.

Whether you're new to FamilySearch.org or you're a longtime user, you'll find the guidance you need to discover your ancestors and make the most of the site's valuable resources.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs