There are a lot of ways in which you can search for a record of birth. You can search locally through your courthouse or registrar, you can search online via your registrar, or you can search through a larger middle man provider that can help you search several different areas at once if you aren't sure where a birth took place. With so many different ways to search, it's easier than ever to find the birth records that you are looking for.
There are many reasons that you might want to search for birth records. You may just need a copy of your own birth certificate that you lost. Many people find that they don't have an official copy when they need it most. Doing a records search will allow you to get the birth certificate that you need. You may also need records for children or family members, or you just may be curious about family history or a new neighbor or friendly acquaintance. Births are a matter of public record, so you can search for the records of any birth.
There is a lot of information that you can derive from birth records. You can find out the given name of the individual that was born, where they were born, the date and time, and the name of their parents. This is enough information that you can extend information on a family tree or you can get enough family information to find an old friend or long lost family member.