Library resources aid search
By Wevonneda Minis
Once genealogists have collected information about ancestors from family Bibles, keepsakes and interviews, they typically take their research to the next level by looking for resources outside of the home.
Their first stop is usually the South Carolina Room of the local public library. That's where librarians with expertise in genealogy and family historians research. They can be counted on for technical and moral support.
Librarians and family historians are happy to teach new genealogists about useful records and research methods. They get excited when a genealogist finds an elusive ancestor. But they should not be asked to conduct the research for a patron.
Genealogists take what they learn from family Bibles and interviews with relatives to libraries. There, they try to verify and build on what they have learned. They may study documents that are on library shelves, in digitized collections, on microfilm, in vertical files and through online subscription services.
For more on genealogy
It's helpful for family historians to tell librarians about the research they already have done. They should ask for a tour of the South Carolina Room. They should note sources that sound as though they could be helpful. But it's a good idea to run those past the librarian.
Most genealogists start their library research by using city directories and censuses. Genealogists add to their repertoire of information sources over time, but directories and censuses continue to be useful.
There's so much information available from local, state and national information sources at the library, a genealogist can feel like the proverbial "kid in a candy store." It may take a little while to become proficient at using them, but don't give up.
And don't just use them to find the basics: Analyze them for clues. Those who concentrate on getting the most from city directories and censuses soon are amazed at how skilled they've become.
Pretty soon, the phrase, "I'm a genealogist" becomes easy to say.
Reach Wevonneda Minis at 937-5705 or wminis@postandcourier.com.
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