Research Guides: Genealogy and Family History: Library Resources

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Subjects: Art, Asian Studies, English, Management, Philosophy & Religion

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Healey Library Statement on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

The Healey Library is committed to taking action and making changes as we identify them in order to improve the working and studying environment.

Anti-Racism Guide
Information and resources for the UMass Boston community

Databases

Ancestry Library Edition This link opens in a new window
If you are in the residence hall, you will need to use VPN to gain access.

Ancestry contains thousands of family history databases, including vital records, census records, ship passenger lists, military records, newspapers, Jewish family records, African American history, and more.
In addition it has information from dictionaries, encyclopedias and other reference works; stories, memories & histories, including slave narratives; photos and maps.
American Ancestors This link opens in a new window
If you are in the residence hall, you will need to use VPN to gain access.
The New England Historic Genealogical Society library is one of the nation’s leading research centers for genealogists of every skill level. In it are housed millions of documents, manuscripts, records, books, microfilms, photographs, artifacts, electronic resources, and other items that preserve and reveal our history. The NEHGS has been collecting information about families in America for over 165 years. Our collections are international in scope and contain significant materials for Canada and Europe.
African American Heritage This link opens in a new window
An African American genealogical research database, which includes records from the Federal Census, World War I and II draft registration cards, and the Freedman's Bank.
HeritageQuest Online This link opens in a new window
HeritageQuest® Online is a comprehensive treasury of American genealogical sources—rich in unique primary sources, local and family histories, and finding aids. Coverage dates back to the 1700s.

Reference Books

The Source by Loretto Dennis Szucs (Editor); Sandra Hargreaves Luebking (Editor)
Call Number: CS49 .S65 2006 - 8th Floor
Publication Date: 2006-06-01
Genealogists and other historical researchers have valued the first two editions of this work, often referred to as the genealogist's bible.The Source also functions as an instructional tool for novice genealogists and a refresher course for experienced researchers. More than 30 experts in this field--genealogists, historians, librarians, and archivists--prepared the 20 signed chapters, which are well written, easy to read, and include many helpful hints for getting the most out of whatever information is acquired. Each chapter ends with an extensive bibliography and is further enriched by tables, black-and-white illustrations, and examples of documents. Eight appendixes include the expected contact information for groups and institutions that persons studying genealogy and history need to find.
Basics of Genealogy Reference by Jack Simpson
Publication Date: 2008-09-30
This book offers novice and experienced reference librarians an introduction to tried-and-true genealogy techniques and resources. With the help of four case studies, Simpson outlines a basic starting strategy for conducting genealogy research. Later chapters deal specifically with genealogical librarianship: how to conduct a reference interview, continuing and professional development, and basic resources every collection should have. Charts, screen shots, and examples of public documents are also included; while a series of appendices present the case studies in their entirety.
Genealogy Online by Elizabeth Powell Crowe
Publication Date: 2010-09-17
Using this detailed guide, anyone with a computer and an interest in family history can successfully embark on a genealogical research project, locate family roots, and possibly find new family members. It explores the vast world of ancestry-related networks, websites, and online services and explains how they all work.