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Crash course in genealogy
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2011
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Library Journal Review
This addition to Libraries Unlimited's "Crash Course" series provides a short, snappy introduction to genealogy. Dowell, a retired librarian and longtime genealogist, focuses primarily on American research and attempts to address briefly the latest buzz developments in genealogy, such as DNA research. He talks about searching for ancestors from different time periods and the standard resources and tools that should be consulted. He includes a chapter on minority and ethnic research. The chief virtue of the book is that it has material on the upcoming April 2012 release of the 1940 census (there is a 72-year waiting period before census records become available because of privacy concerns) so readers can prepare for what promises to be a gold mine of new family information. Ably illustrated and clearly presented, this book should help readers rattle some bones in their family closets. VERDICT Some readers will find the overview a little too brief in parts; for instance, Dowell could have devoted more space to military record research, an ever-popular field. Although aimed at librarians, the book can be profitably enjoyed by anyone wanting to learn about a rapidly expanding hobby.-Paul Kaplan, Lake Villa Dist. Lib, IL (c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
Libraries Unlimited's Crash Course series usually includes titles meant only for library staff. This one, however, could be equally useful for any individual desiring to begin genealogical research. It covers basic principles, frequently used tools, resources other than libraries, and more. 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. That said, there are caveats. Genealogy is misspelled as Geneology on the spine, and the reference t. rabid genealogist. in the preface does not encourage a cooperative approach or reflect the intent of an otherwise quite-useful resource.--Jane, Sall. Copyright 2010 Booklist
Summary

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.

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