[Genealib] Advice for Library School Students

[Forsyth, William]

Amber, et al:

Just last week, I discovered a new book written by Jack Simpson, "Basics of Genealogy Reference: A Librarian's Guide." Jack is Curator of Local and Family History at The Newberry Library, Chicago, IL.  He's a well-respected genealogy librarian and a frequent contributor to Genealib.

The book was released on September 30 and retails for $40. It's currently available from Amazon.com (warning: the URL could change at anytime):

        http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1591585147

According to the product description, "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."

Sounds to me like he's hit the bull's-eye with this book!  I've already ordered my copy.  Maybe we can coax Jack into giving us some more details?!

Regards,
Bill Forsyth

William J. Forsyth, PMP
Director of Product Management
ProQuest LLC
william.forsyth at proquest.com


-----Original Message-----
From: genealib-bounces at mailman.acomp.usf.edu [mailto:genealib-bounces at mailman.acomp.usf.edu] On Behalf Of Amber Brock
Sent: Friday, October 17, 2008 6:45 PM
To: genealib at mailman.acomp.usf.edu
Subject: [Genealib] Advice for Library School Students

Hello Everyone,
I am currently in my second year of library school at the University of
Washington's Information School and in my first quarter of a genealogy
year-long class. I am putting together a small article about Genealogy and
Librarianship for the Information School's student newspaper.  Our library
school does not have any classes or workshops that focus on the skills and
helpful resources when assisting patrons with genealogical based
questions/research. If you have the time, could you answer the following
questions for me.

1. What books or article would you recommend library school students read to
prepare for these types of reference interactions?
2. What genealogy resources would you recommend library school students
become acquainted with to prepare for these interactions?
3. What other advice would you give library school students about genealogy
and Libraries?

Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions.

Amber Brock

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