Norwegian-American Genealogical Association



The Genealogy Library 

The MGS Library is an Ancestry and Family Search Affiliate. Members can access all the resources of Ancestry and Family Search from the MGS Library computers. Use of the MGS Library is free to all MGS and N-AGA members. Non-members are asked to pay $10 per day to use the library.

The Hoffman Research Library is open Wednesdays from 10 to 4, Thursdays from 10 to 8 and Saturdays from 10 to 4. However, the library is only open when volunteers are available to staff it, so check the MGS website before making plans to visit the library.

Members may receive assistance with Norwegian research in person or by email.

  • In person on scheduled membership meeting dates. Please check the events calendar.
  • Via email to research@norwegianamerican.org for an email response or to set up a meeting with a N-AGA researcher. 

How to Search the MGS Library Catalog

We have produced two guides to help you with catalog searches.


Tips for Using the MGS Catalog

How to Search the MGS Library Catalog

The N-AGA Library Collection

    Genealogy books are alphabetical by fylke: bygdebøker, lag publications, emigration records. This is the largest part of our collection.

    Maps are in the map drawers close to the book shelves. 

    Census & Emigration microfilm & fiche

    Using the Catalog with Norwegian characters

    The Rowberg File

    Searching for Farm Names


    • GENEAL is the call number for Norwegian dictionaries, Stedsfortegnelse and genealogy publications including binders with articles on research and culture.
    • N-AM is the section for Norwegian-American publications. Topics include immigration history, settlement history, church booklets.
    • NORGE includes resources in and about Norway: culture, emigration, history, religion. 
    • Family Histories are cataloged in the Family History section of the library.

      All materials in the library are available to N-AGA members. The online catalog for MGS contains all items in the library, including N-AGA’s collection. The MGS collection contains a section on Norway also. Their call numbers show “NOR.”

      Research Forms 
      Family Group Sheet
      Ancestor Pedigree Chart includes five generations

      Work Sheet for Recording One Family's Data


      Norwegian-American Genealogical Association

      1385 Mendota Heights Road, Suite 100

      Mendota Heights, MN 55120

      N-AGA is a 501(c)3 non-profit educational organization.




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