The Library of Congress; a Guide to Genealogical and Historical Research

A must have for anyone planning to conduct research in the Library of Congress! The Library of Congress is one of the greatest information reservoirs in the world! Many a genealogist have found themselves walking the enormous halls of the three buildings that hold the library's multitude of information sources. It is a difficult task! This mammoth institution is more than just The Local History and Genealogy Reading Room! To properly conduct research, you must know how to, and where to access all the resources the library has to offer!

Another of Ancestry's guides to genealogical research collections, this book was written to help genealogists learn about and use the resources of the Library of Congress. The chapters are grouped into three sections: the history and organization of the library and how to find materials there; sources that describe individuals and families; and resources on localities in the United States. The selected bibliographies in each chapter help the reader visualize the research potential in the collections of the Library of Congress, especially that of the Local History and Genealogy Reading Room. Parts one and two have excellent discussions on how to do genealogical research. A similar work exists for the National Archives, Guide to Genealogical Research in the National Archives (National Archives, 1983; 1985. rev. ed.). Both books are well written and easy to use. Neagles's guide will be more helpful to the novice, however. It provides extensive comments on research methodology and on the library's unique catalogs and indexes. Any library with patrons who are genealogists or local historians will want this book. Librarians trying to build a core collection of genealogical materials will find the bibliographies especially helpful.
- Ray mond S. Wright III, Family History Lib., Salt Lake City
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.