A Sourcebook for Genealogical Research: Resources Alphabetically by Type and Location Book

In this reference for both beginning and experienced genealogy researchers, Stockwell, a publishing consultant, provides 270 entries on all aspects of genealogical research and family history compilation. Each state and each of the provinces of Canada has its own entry, and there are many country entries as well. Other entries overview the use of different types of records and references for genealogical research. An address list provides contacts for organizations in each state and province, plus 53 other countries. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

Library Journal

Stockwell (History of Information Storage and Retrieval) here offers a collection of genealogy-related definitions and discussions, with subjects ranging from Ecuadorian genealogy to name abbreviations. For each U.S. state entry, Stockwell gives a general overview of the state's history along with information on various types of records. He then lists each county and county seat within the state. International research is also covered, again with general histories of countries and synopses of available records. While the beginning researcher may find items of interest here, some of the information is outdated. For example, Stockwell notes that the catalog of the Latter-day Saints' Family History Library is available on microfiche but fails to add that it has also been online at the FamilySearch web site since 1999. Further, the entry on genealogical periodicals mentions two smaller indexes of selected titles but ignores the mammoth Periodical Source Index. Likewise, the entry on Ohio records recommends John W. Heisey's brief Ohio Genealogical Research Guide for further study instead of Kip Sperry's comprehensive and contemporary Genealogical Research in Ohio. Bottom Line While publishers are free to charge what they want for their products, this paperback's steep price puts it out of reach for many cash-strapped libraries and genealogists. And since it is far from inclusive, it is recommended only as a marginal purchase. Elaine M. Kuhn, Allen Cty. P.L., Ft. Wayne, IN Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.