[Genealib] Changing world of buying genealogy materials! [was Genealogy librarians-job descriptions]

[Pam Cooper]

Sandy, I agree. What a powerful statement especially now more than ever. 

Have any of you read the press release from Ancestry CEO Tim Sullivan? http://tgn.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=121 

I am beginning to realize that the more I purchase genealogy materials, the more inefficient it becomes. It often goes online within a short time. Look at Heritage Quest, Footnote, FamilySearchlabs.org, etc. I know there are exceptions with certain materials, but I want to make a point here. <g>

Local history does not go online as quickly because it gets created daily. This is where we need to concentrate if you do not have a good historical society in your community. We have been creating, indexing, collecting local history files for 22 years and we are now the definite source. But, NONE of our history is available online except for indexes and guides. We do not have enough staff, money or the time. How many of you are in the same situation?   

So, since we are getting our budget cut by 60%, where do I concentrate my spending on what I have left? I am taking the big step. We were once a great genealogy department, but the greatest need is local history. I will be using every dollar that I have in the coming year for local history. Hopefully, the local society and the Friends of the library will supplement our other needs. 

Sandy's statement sure hit home. <g>

Pam

Pamela J. Cooper, Supervisor 
Archive Center & Genealogy Department
Indian River County Main Library
1600 21st Street, Vero Beach, FL 32960

772-770-5060 x4148 - Fax 772-770-5446
Email: pcooper at irclibrary.org  

Web Site: http://www.irclibrary.org/genealogy

-----Original Message-----
From: genealib-bounces at mailman.acomp.usf.edu [mailto:genealib-bounces at mailman.acomp.usf.edu] On Behalf Of Nancy Maxwell
Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2008 5:56 PM
To: Librarians Serving Genealogists
Subject: Re: [Genealib] Genealogy libarians-job descriptions

 "As my library director has told me many times you cannot always buy local history sometimes you have to make it."

Sandy, that statement is GOLDEN. Kudos to your director!


Nancy Maxwell, Genealogy Librarian
Frances Pittman Malcolm Genealogy Room
Grapevine Public Library
1201 Municipal Way
Grapevine, TX 76051
Voice: 817-410-3429
Fax: 817-410-3084
E-mail: nmaxwell at grapevinetexas.gov