Learn genealogy basics
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
OSU Emeriti Association to host library program
The OSU Emeriti Association and the Stillwater Public Library will host an hour-long program entitled "Undertaking Your Genealogy Search,” on Wednesday, July 17 at 1:30 p.m. The event is a part of a monthly series, “Making the Most of Retirement,” which provides educational programs aimed at enriching the lives of local retirees.
Presented by longtime researcher Theo Yoast and librarian Stacy DeLano, the program will discuss the steps beginners should take when starting their search.
“A mountain of information is available online and at the library,” said Yoast. “But I notice that many people do not dig into the rich mine of information and history they already have hidden away in their family files. I am hoping to give participants some hints on how to find and pull together that great information before undertaking a more in depth search.”
Yoast will also explain how to use some of the most common and helpful resources in the library, including cemetery indexes, family histories, local histories and obituary files.
“Genealogists need to be aware of what material is available and how to use it,” said Yoast. “My goal in this section is to help beginners understand these resources, so when they travel to another library to do research, they will know which local items to request.”
DeLano will provide information about using the library’s genealogical databases, Heritage Quest and Ancestry.com, library edition. She will briefly demonstrate how to use the databases and explain the advantages and challenges of each.
“Our community is fortunate to have free access to so much material,” said DeLano. “At the same time, it is essential to understand how to navigate such huge amounts of information. Above all, we want to keep people from becoming overwhelmed. We’re hoping this session will prepare beginners for common obstacles like information overload, so they can continue to enjoy this exciting hobby.”
Following the presentation and a question and answer session, participants will be invited to share their own genealogy tips.
“We want participants to benefit from the shared wisdom and experience of our local retirees,” said Zane Quible, Emeriti Association member. “These programs not only help participants learn from experts in the community, but also give them a chance to pass along their expertise.”
“Making the Most of Retirement” is free and open to all retirees. The group meets at 1:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month at the Stillwater Public Library. Upcoming programs include Smart Estate Planning on Aug. 21, Volunteer Opportunities in Stillwater on Sept. 18 and Issues Relating to High Blood Pressure and High Cholesterol on Oct. 16.
Retirees interested in learning more about the free programs should visit http://retiredinstillwater.wordpress.com.
The Stillwater Public Library is located at 1107 S. Duck St. (the corner of Duck and 12th Ave.). Visit the library online at http://library.stillwater.org.