How do I find the original image for a record in the International Genealogical Index (IGI)?

Article Id: 1487
January 23, 2025
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The indexed International Genealogical Index (IGI) came from original records. The information was copied from the original records, entered into a computer, and published.

When you find results in the IGI, you see the results within a Historical Record Collection. Use the steps to search the IGI and determine if an image is available.

Steps to search the IGI (website)

  1. Sign in to FamilySearch
  2. Click Search and then Records.
  3. Scroll down to Find a Collection. In the Collection Title field, type International.
  4. From the list below the search field, click International Genealogical Index (IGI).
  5. Enter your search terms and click Search.
  6. In the search results, click the name of the person.
  7. To the left of the indexed information, if an image is available, you see "View Original Document." Click View Original Document.

Steps if you see Image Unavailable

If you see Image Unavailable instead of View Original Document, you can sometimes find the image by using the catalog.

  1. Below the field containing Image Unavailable, click Document Information.
  2. Copy the microfilm number.
  3. At the top of the page, click Catalog
  4. Below the "Search For" heading, click Image Group Number (DGS) or Film Number.
  5. Enter the microfilm number and click Search.
  6. Click the title in the search results.
  7. Scroll to Film/Digital Notes and find the film number.
  8. Look in the Format column for the following options:
    • Magnifying Glass: Indicates some parts of the item are indexed.
    • Camera: Allows browsing of digitized images.
    • Camera with Warning Symbol: Explains that viewing restrictions apply.
    • Film Reel: Indicates that FamilySearch has a physical version (microfilm or microfiche) and the record custodian denies digital access.
    • No Icon: Indicates FamilySearch lacks a physical copy, and the record custodian denies access to the digital images.

Steps (mobile app)

  1. Open the FamilySearch Family Tree app.
  2. Tap the three lines icon.
    • On Android, look in the top right.
    • On Apple iOS, look in the bottom right.
  3. Tap Search Historical Records.
  4. Continue with step three in the website instructions. The Catalog is not available through the mobile app.

Steps (Family Tree Lite)

You cannot search historical records in Family Tree Lite. Use the full website or the mobile app.

Does the contributed International Genealogical Index (IGI) contain source or submitter information?
What is the International Genealogical Index (IGI)?
How do I search the indexed International Genealogical Index (IGI)?

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