The Iloilo Provincial Library officially launched its partnership with FamilySearch on April 6, 2026, opening new opportunities for Ilonggos to explore their family history, ancestry, and historical roots through expanded access to genealogical records.
The launch marks the Iloilo Provincial Library’s designation as an affiliate library of FamilySearch, one of the world’s largest genealogical organizations. Through this partnership, library users can now access a wider range of digitized family history materials, historical documents, census and baptismal records, birth and marriage records, and other genealogical resources that are only available through affiliate libraries. The Iloilo Provincial Library is the 2nd public library in the country to be an affiliate.
Held at the Grand Social Hall of Casa Real de Iloilo, the event highlighted the importance of preserving family heritage and making historical information more accessible to the public. Nereo Lujan, Provincial Historian and Provincial Information Officer, shared in his introductory message how FamilySearch has helped him in historical research and connect with family and relatives. Felvir Ordinario, Field Relations Specialist of FamilySearch, introduced the FamilySearch platform and demonstrated how users can begin tracing their family trees and discovering connections to past generations. Vice Governor Nathalie “Lee Ann” Debuque also graced the event.
Provincial Librarian Allana Delgado emphasized that the partnership was initiated in response to the growing demand for genealogical information and the increasing number of inquiries received by the library regarding birth records and family history research. Many library users are seeking information for various purposes, including applications for citizenship, locating birth certificates, and documenting family lineage. Others are simply interested in learning more about their roots and preserving their family history for future generations.
Library staff, researchers, students, and members of the public attended the launch, expressing enthusiasm about the new service and its potential to support historical research, cultural preservation, and personal discovery. The FamilySearch partnership is expected to benefit not only individuals interested in genealogy, but also local historians, educators, students, and researchers seeking primary sources and historical records related to Iloilo and the wider Philippines.
As an affiliate library, the Iloilo Provincial Library strengthens its role as a center for learning, heritage preservation, and public access to information. The initiative also aligns with the library’s ongoing efforts to provide innovative services and resources to Ilonggos. Last year, the Library launched its own online platform for digitized materials and Provincial government publications, iloiloelibrary.com.
Interested users are encouraged create a free account in familysearch.org, or download the free mobile app available in Google Play and iOS app store and explore the free resources. To enjoy unrestricted access to FamilySearch, interested users may visit the Iloilo Provincial Library to explore the FamilySearch database. To connect, a dedicated desktop computer is available for public use and users may also bring their own devices. For those who are interested in learning about their family history or is searching for specific information, you may contact the Library for assistance through their Facebook page or e-mail at librarynarchives@iloilo.gov.ph
The Library is located at 1F Casa Real de Iloilo or the Old Provincial Capitol building in front of the Arroyo Fountain, and open from Mondays to Thursdays, 7 am to 6 pm.
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