In a message dated 6/21/00 8:03:48 AM Eastern Daylight Time, [email protected] writes: << Unless things have changed, I was very frustrated at the archives. You can't go get things yourself. There was one worker and a volunteer from a local genie society. They go get stuff and you wait for it, no matter how long it takes. You can look through city directories and some books while you are waiting, but I had limited time. Personally, I would recommend Fairview Park Library. >> I do research at both places & would still recommend the Archives for someone who had limited time. No, things will not change regarding Archives staff. You must be patient. Also, there is much to find on the many microfiche of marriages & probate records, microfilms of the newspaper necrology files, naturalization records, and, of course, my old standby, City Directories. For someone with limited time, it is best to at least obtain lots of basic info. You could always write to the Archives later & ask for a copy of the original record. It's hard to explain how I do research at the Archives but there is a lot of information to be found while waiting for staff or volunteer to bring you records. Hope you have a better experience the next time you come to Cleveland. As to Fairview Library, they only have one person, Lisa Davison, who handles Genealogy. And unless you come very well prepared you will spin your wheels and find nothing. Also, microfilm readers might all be in use the day & time you arrive, so you must be prepared for that. Carolyn