As genealogists, we know not everything is online. Sometimes our research takes us to physical repositories (libraries, archives, etc.). Well, the same can be true for genealogy reference books. Sure, you may be able to find online versions, but there’s nothing like holding a book in your hand and flipping through the pages, finding what you need to break through that brick wall ancestor.
In this blog post, I’m going to tell you about three reference books I recently purchased and how you can start building a genealogy reference library, affordably.
Since I started doing genealogy, I’ve slowly built a home library of reference books that help me with my research. Three in particular are becoming my favorites: The Red Book, The Source, and The Researcher’s Guide to American Genealogy…and I bought them all without breaking my budget.
The Value of Genealogy Reference Books
Why should you invest in physical reference books when so much is available online? Here are a few reasons:
Reliable Information: Books have to be edited, often by experts in the field. Because of that, the information is more accurate and comprehensive. Unlike online resources, which can vary in quality, books offer a level of trust because they have such a structured publication process.
Content: Online resources often just provide summaries. They can’t go in-depth like a big, thick reference book. The Source is 964 pages. I can’t imagine trying to find something online in a book of that size.
Spotlight on Three of my Favorites
These three books are staples for any genealogy library, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned researcher:
The Red Book1
This book focuses on finding records at the state, county, or town level. It’s organized by state, making it easy to locate where specific records are kept. Once we know what we need to look for, vital records, probate records, etc., our next question is where are they? This book helps you answer that question.
The Source2
Ok, now that you know where to find the records, you need to know what record is going to help answer your research question. The Source is a book written by expert genealogical researchers. They start by giving you the foundations of excellent research, but then break down each record group so you know what the primary sources are and how to use them. It also provides background on how and why these records were created, which can help you interpret them more better.
The Researcher’s Guide to American Genealogy3
I decided to purchase an earlier edition of this book to save some money. This book takes a methodical approach to genealogy research, stressing the importance of developing strong research habits. It’s an excellent resource for learning advanced techniques, such as cluster research and analyzing indirect evidence. If you’re stuck on a brick wall ancestor, this book could provide the breakthrough you need.
A Summary And How These Books Work Together
Each of these books supports a different aspect of your genealogy. Use them together to get the most out of your research.
- The Red Book helps you understand where to find records.
- The Source explains how to use them.
- The Researcher’s Guide shows you how to analyze the information you find and think about it logically and effectively.
By combining these resources, you’ll build a well-rounded understanding of genealogy research.
Building Your Genealogy Library on a Budget
Genealogy books can be expensive, but there are ways to save:
- Thrift Book Sites: Websites like ThriftBooks and AbeBooks offer used copies at a fraction of the cost. I bought The Red Book and The Source at ThriftBooks for about a third of the price of buying them new.
- Library Sales: Local libraries often sell used books, including genealogy titles.
- Amazon: You can often find used books on Amazon for a fraction of the cost. This is where I picked up The Researcher’s Guide to American Genealogy.
- Genealogy Societies: Many societies have lending libraries or offer discounts on books.
- E-Books: Digital versions can be more affordable and save space. As I said, I’m not a big fan of reference material in an e-book format. But if you are, they can be less expensive.
- Websites: Online stores at website often have deals throughout the year. American Ancestors has wonderful sales on many of their books.
If you dig into these sites a bit you can find what you need and not break the bank.
Tips for Using Reference Books
Here are a few ways to make the most of your books:
Highlight Key Sections: Use sticky notes or tabs to mark important pages. You only want to find something once. Set up your own system for locating it again, easily.
Create Summaries: Write summaries of chapters or sections to make sure you understand what you’ve read.
Keep Them Handy: Store your books near your desk or workspace for quick reference.
Use the Index: Don’t overlook the index! It’s often the fastest way to find specific information.
Other Recommended Books
Looking to expand your library? Here are some additional titles worth considering:
- Evidence Explained by Elizabeth Shown Mills. This is a must-have for citing sources correctly. I use this and her website, www.evidenceexplained.com, every day. The 4th edition has the most updated information.
- Genealogy Standards by the Board for Certification of Genealogists. This is a quick but powerful read, essential for understanding professional standards. You can pick up a copy at www.bcgcertification.org.
- Mastering Genealogical Proof by Thomas W. Jones – great for learning about evidence analysis. I’ve read this book multiple times.
Creating a Genealogy Education Plan
Building a reference library at home is part of your overall genealogy education. We all need to refine our skills to stay sharp and up to date. Here are some tips to create a genealogy education plan of your own, including blog posts that may help:
Begin with Basics: Learn about records you will need frequently like vital records and census records. The Source is a great starting point for understanding these foundational documents.
Where To Start In Your Genealogy Research
Explore Local Resources: Use The Red Book to identify repositories and records in your ancestors’ locations.
How To Use A Locality Guide In Your Genealogy Research
Develop Advanced Skills: Read The Researcher’s Guide to learn how to tackle complex problems and analyze evidence like a professional.
8 Ways To Improve Your Skills For Better Genealogy Research
Practice and Apply: Use case studies or projects to apply what you’ve learned. Create timelines, maps, or research plans based on techniques from these books.
Case Studies: A Powerful Way To Learn Genealogy
Stay Current: Genealogy is always evolving. Webinars, conferences, and blogs can keep you learning and growing.
3 Ways Continuing Education Can Advance Your Genealogy Research
Finally
Building a genealogy library is an investment in your research skills. Reference books provide the foundation you need to work efficiently and effectively. Whether you’re consulting The Red Book to locate a record, The Source to understand it, or The Researcher’s Guide to analyze it, these books will guide you every step of the way.
Start small, look for bargains, and build your collection over time. With the right resources at your fingertips, you’ll be well-equipped to uncover the stories of your ancestors and preserve them for future generations.
Genealogy tip: Look for seasonal sales to boost your savings even more.
If you need a professional genealogist to kick-start your research or to do a family history project for you, give me a call. We can chat for 30 minutes with no obligation to you.
1 Alice Eichholz, Ph.D, C.G., editor, Red Book American State, County, and Town Sources, 3rd ed. (Provo: Ancestry Publishing, 2004).
2 Loretto Dennis Szucs and Sandra Hargreaves Luebking, editors, The Source A Guidebook to American Genealogy, 3rd ed. (Provo: Ancestry Publishing, 2006).
3 Val D. Greenwood, The Researcher’s Guide to American Genealogy, 3rd ed. (Baltimore: Genealogical Publishing Co., Inc., 2000).
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