Basics of Genealogy Reference: A Librarian's Guide

by Jack Simpson

Genealogy is one of the most popular hobbies in the United States, and is heavily researched in public libraries and historical repositories. Increasingly, major genealogy resources are available online at libraries through subscription databases or free on the internet. As a result, librarians face the overwhelming task of helping a large audience of genealogists cope with an ever growing flood of new resources.

This book offers novice and experienced reference librarians an introduction to tried-and-true genealogy techniques and resources. With the help of four case studies, Simpson outlines a basic starting strategy for conducting genealogy research. Later chapters deal specifically with genealogical librarianship: how to conduct a reference interview, continuing and professional development, and basic resources every collection should have. Charts, screen shots, and examples of public documents are also included; while a series of appendices present the case studies in their entirety.

Genres: Nonfiction, Reference, History, Library Science, Adult

192 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Kathy KS · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this to be a basic introduction to genealogical research and genealogy reference for librarians who are now assigned to do this type of reference, but have no past experience. However, the fact that it was published over ten years ago negates much of the information, because so much has happened in the field and with technology in those years. Names of databases have changed, new ones have become "go to" sites, and several have faded away.

But the "basic" information concerning beginning research by making pedigree and/or family group sheets to focus a patron's needs, how to use censuses and vital records, etc. still remains valid.

Recommended with the above caveats. Everytime I read another beginning genealogy book it reminds me of something I want to work on!

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good introduction to the field of genealogy.

[Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm about to start a position as a genealogy and local history reference librarian at a public library and this book was a great introductory resource for me and has helped me build on some skills I learned from cursory family history research years ago. While some of the links to the resources he discusses have changed (for instance, the German Roots website is now at germanroots.com) and in particular the interface for the Family History Library (which he devoted a whole chapter to) has changed, this is still by and large a great resource for librarians working with genealogy projects and I anticipate referencing it a lot in the future.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not a librarian, so I can't speak to the value that this text would have for someone already trained in that field, but for the layperson, this book had lots of information on how to conduct genealogy research and the vast array of resources available (web-based, free, fee-based). All information was very clearly presented, and examples were useful.

[Molly]

I haven't a clue as to where I would start. I'm trying to learn more- we'll see.

Alright, I gave it a shot and ran out of renewals. And time. What I read was good and enlightening- I definitely will get this again when I have more time. (who knows when that will be)

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very useful guide for librarians who have little or no experience with genealogy as well as those who aren't up-to-speed on online searching. The text is interesting and goes into some depth without being overwhelming or boring.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great basic introduction to genealogy reference for librarians who feel out of their depths when asked for help. Face it, genealogy is hot right now, and librarians are going to see more and more people who want to try their hand at Ancestry.com or other avenues of research.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent source for the genealogy researcher! I read it from the angle of both a librarian and a researcher tracking my own family heritage.

[Marti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shaking the family tree is going to be SCARY!!
This is a great beginners guide.

[Elizabeth]

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