Genealogical Research on the Web

Citation

Chao, S.J. (2003), "Genealogical Research on the Web", Collection Building, Vol. 22 No. 1, pp. 47-47. https://doi.org/10.1108/01604950310457221

Each year increasing numbers of individuals have become interested in learning about their ancestors and lineage. With the growing importance of computer technologies that are changing the format and speed of information delivery options, the Internet has gained recognition as a popular and invaluable tool for genealogical research. However, finding the good sources that cover the precise information sought is often difficult, especially for users with limited time to surf the Web or who lack experience with search engines and subject constructions. Genealogical Research on the Web and the companion Web‐based workshop will serve as an excellent tool for librarians, archivists, genealogists, researchers, and anyone interested in pursuing the exciting journey of genealogical discovery.

The book is divided into four major parts with each one covering an important aspect of genealogical research on the Internet. Each part contains background information on the subject, discussions of experiences by other researchers and genealogical research success stories, as well as learning activities for users.

Part 1, “How to get started: the basics of genealogical research on the Internet”, provides an overview of the fundamental genealogical questions, the types of information available on the Internet, and how to evaluate it.

Part 2, “How to find and use basic genealogical reference and documentation tools on the Web”, discusses the ten “best” genealogical reference tools on the Internet, from government resources, federal census records and national archives to the popular genealogical homepages and available Web links.

Part 3, “How to network with living family members and/or fellow genealogical researchers”, addresses the need for quality genealogy with emphasis on how to document and authenticate the materials found. This part focuses on how to find fellow researchers and family members, both individually and through discussion lists, newsgroups, and e‐mail connections for accessing and sharing resources effectively.

Part 4, “How to locate international, African‐American, and Native American ancestors; heraldry and lineage societies”, deals with international resources with special attention on the African‐American and Native American genealogical resources.

This book is highly recommended for public, academic, and special libraries with large local history collections. It is an essential guide for beginners, experts, librarians, archivists, and historians on genealogical research especially for the purpose of gaining virtual research experiences.