Volunteer
There is nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer.
James Doolittle, Author, WWII Pilot and Ph.D.
History Room volunteer positions open!
The Freeport Public Library and SCGS are always looking for a Volunteers to work in the History Room. Our FPL History Room has become known as the “GEM” of the County for research of all kinds including family, business, local history and local architecture.
Volunteers should have an understanding of genealogy and/or Stephenson County history, enjoy working with people and willing to donate their time for a 3 to 4 hour spot. This spot could be once per month, every other week, or hopefully on a weekly basis. What ever time you are able to contribute on a recurring basis will be gratefully appreciated and help keep our History Room consistently available for research.
SCGS and the FPL are flexible when Volunteers need to miss a day but we encourage the assigned Volunteer to try to contact another Volunteer to switch with or who may be willing to take their shift.
Training is provided and support is available during Volunteer hours.
Volunteering in the History Room is a rewarding experience and, especially for those involved in researching their own family histories, a tremendous resource and learning opportunity.
Interested persons should contact
Stephenson County Genealogical Society
Stephenson County and the surrounding area has a storied history of dedicated people who give back to the community. The Stephenson County Genealogical Society (SCGS) is all about doing things for each other. We invite you to explore some of the ways you can help by visiting with us at the Frances Woodhouse History Room at the Freeport Public Library or contact SCGS by email.
Volunteer Services
Here are just a few areas in which you can volunteer your services and abilities:
- Give assistance at the Freeport Public Library by manning the History Room during library hours. Our volunteers work on a rotating schedule Monday through Saturday. For scheduled hours, check our Events page.
- Respond to research requests and help visitors to the History Room with their research.
- Conduct your own research whenever possible.
- Help lead a special genealogy project such as our recent youth scavenger hunt based on Stephenson County history. We welcome new volunteer project ideas for SCGS to consider. Contact the Society.
The Frances Woodhouse History Room
The History Room is located on the first floor of the Freeport Public Library, 100 E. Douglas St. in downtown Freeport, Illinois. Our volunteers work on a rotating schedule Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday during the hours of 9 a.m. to noon and Tuesday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Give us a call or stop in to visit… we would love to meet you!
Genealogy Presentations
Volunteers can participate in monthly presentations following each SCGS business meeting on the 1st Thursday of the month – except January and July. If you have something of genealogical or historical interest to share with members and the community, please contact SCGS.
Recent presentations include genetic genealogy (DNA testing), the house history and genealogy of a haunted Carroll County farmhouse, cookie cutter collections, history of magic and portrayals of Ulysses and Julia Grant. We’re an eclectic group who enjoy learning and being entertained. Please contact us with your interests and collections!