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The main source you should use to research what happened on your birthdate is The Grand Rapids Press. The Local History Department has microfilm copies of Grand Rapids newspapers back to 1843 and microfilm of The Grand Rapids Press beginning with its initial publication in 1892. Other sources of information for events on your birthday are Chronicles of the 20th Century, which is available at the information desk and other newspapers and magazines on microfilm available in the library's Periodicals Department.  

To use the microfilm: 

1. Find the reel of film that corresponds to the date of your birth. Microfilm reels contain from 10 days to one month of newspapers.
2. Load the film onto a microfilm reader. Ask for a librarian for help if you are unfamiliar with the readers.
3. Find your birth date and examine it for interesting stories, events, weather information or advertisements. 
4. Prints (8.5 x 11) can be made from the microfilm. If you want prints, record the date and page of the article you want to copy as you examine the newspaper. Each print costs 25 cents, machines require change (nickels, dimes, or quarters). Change machines are available on the 2nd or 3rd floors or at the first floor circulation desk.
5. When you are finished with a microfilm reel, please return it to the top of the microfilm cabinets.

The staff of the Local History Department will help you locate the correct film, load the film onto a microfilm reader, and/or make prints.