Crash Course in Genealogy

(Paperback)

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Description

A basic, how-to book written primarily to prepare librarians to assist genealogy researchers, this guide can also be used by those who wish to discover and document their family histories. There has been an explosion of interest in genealogy recently, with popular series running on PBS (Faces of America), NBC (Who Do You Think You Are) and BYU-TV (The Generations Project). Even Lisa Simpson did a genealogy project for school. Part of the popular Crash Course series, Crash Course in Genealogy will help librarians feel more comfortable as they work with the increasing number of patrons looking for assistance in researching their family trees. Beginning with library genealogical services policies, the guide moves on to cover genealogical research principles and most-used sources. It also illustrates how one can perform a search backward in time through American family history. The book includes information on researching people of color, taking research to another country, and adding DNA information to genealogical research. Examples from the author's decades-long experience as a genealogist enrich the text, while illustrations of census records and the like help readers understand the research process.

Reviews

This is a great book for beginners as well as those further advanced in their genealogical pursuits. The DNA chapter is especially helpful for those who want to understand more than just the basics before they take the plunge in to DNA testing. Those who have already done the testing and want a better understanding of their results will also benefit from this chapter. * Middle Tennessee Journal of Genealogy & History *
Ably illustrated and clearly presented, this book should help readers rattle some bones in their family closets. . . . Although aimed at librarians, the book can be profitably enjoyed by anyone wanting to learn about a rapidly expanding hobby. * Library Journal *
The author chaired ALA's Genealogy Committee and clearly understands the topic. His chapter on DNA research, his pragmatic advice to library staff and to individuals on where to start and how to move on, and the specific information he provides about sources such as the Centennia Historical Atlas software package and Random Acts of Genealogical Kindness website are enlightening, and even the experienced researcher will learn something. * Booklist Online *

Author Bio

David R. Dowell has two degrees in history and two in library science, thirty-five years experience as a librarian, and four as a special investigative officer in the U.S. Air Force.