Course: 2026-19
Genealogy Services for Librarians: Tools, Techniques, and Trends
Virtual via Zoom
Faculty:
- Coordinator and Instructor: Kori Robbins, AG®
- Other Instructors: Julie Anderson, MA, AG®, AGL™; Brandon Baird, AG®; Angela Berrett, MLIS; Cherie Bush; Sherri Camp; Joe Everett; Marissa Gardner; Brian Grubbs; Debbie Gurtler, AG®; Bryon Holdiman; Michael Hurst; Sandra Joseph; Sue Kaufman; Trisha Kougioulis, MA; Amy Lee; Becky Loveridge, CA, MLIS; John Skardon; Katie Smith; D. Joshua Taylor, MA, MLS, FUGA; Suzi Trotter-Martin; Brent Trout; Lynn Turner, AG®; Jess Vermeulen; Curt Witcher
Tuition:
- Regular Price: $350.00
- NGS Member Price: $310.00
Description:
Coming Soon…
Student Prerequisites:
None
Recommendations:
None
Recordings:
Sessions will be recorded and available through Wednesday, 4 November 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.
NOTE: All times are listed in Eastern Time.
Live Sessions may be subject to schedule adjustments by your course coordinator.
| Day | Session | Time | Session Title | Description | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday 16 September |
1 | 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM | Unlocking Support: FamilySearch Resources for Genealogy Librarians | FamilySearch offers a wide range of free tools and services to support genealogy research—and librarians are key to helping patrons access them. This session will provide an overview of essential resources, including the Research Wiki, webinars, RootsTech 365, the Learning Center, online communities, and virtual consultations. Learn how to navigate these tools, share them with patrons, and use them to enhance your library’s genealogy services. | Robbins, Bush, Joseph |
| 2 | 8:30 PM – 9:45 PM | Accessing Online Historical Records for Genealogy Research (Panel) | Online historical records are the foundation of modern family history research—but navigating them effectively can be challenging. This panel brings together experts from multiple geographic research specialties to share strategies for finding and using records from around the world. Panelists will highlight key online collections, tips for overcoming access barriers, and tools for interpreting records in different languages and formats. Attendees will leave with practical techniques to help patrons discover and connect with their ancestors through digital resources. | Anderson, Kougioulis, Hurst | |
| Wednesday 23 September |
3 | 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM | It’s Online! What you’ll find in FamilySearch’s Digital Library | You might know the FamilySearch Library has the world’s largest collection of genealogical research materials, but we also have a large online library of many of those same resources. This class will introduce you to the Digital Library, what you’ll find there, and research tips to help you use it most effectively. | Loveridge |
| 4 | 8:30 PM – 9:45 PM | FamilySearch Collections: the what, why, and how for genealogy research | FamilySearch is known for preserving and publishing genealogical information and collections from around the world. This presentation will cover the what, why, and how as FamilySearch, particularly the FamilySearch Library, builds its collection to enable genealogists on their journey to discover and know their ancestors. We’re going back to the basics on collection development, then diving into the FamilySearch website to help you navigate and find some of the best resources within. | Berrett | |
| Wednesday 30 September |
5 | 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM | In-Person Library Help: FamilySearch Library Best Practices | Discover the secrets behind our exceptional guest services that attract thousands of visitors each year. Join us as we share our best practices for creating memorable experiences and learn why our dedication to customer service has earned us outstanding online reviews. | Gurtler |
| 6 | 8:30 PM – 9:45 PM | Building a Genealogy Powerhouse: Top Subscription Sites for Libraries | Turn Your Library into a Genealogy Powerhouse! Discover which subscription sites deliver the biggest impact for family history research. Using real usage data from the FamilySearch Library and regional centers, this session will help you choose the best resources for your patrons and community demographics. Make informed decisions, maximize ROI, and empower your library to become a hub for discovery! |
Gardner | |
| Wednesday 7 October |
7 | 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM | Preserving the Past: Digitizing Multimedia for Family History | Learn how public libraries can support patrons in preserving family memories through multimedia digitization. This session highlights practical approaches to offering services for VHS tapes, audio cassettes, and photos—drawing on the FamilySearch Library’s Memory Lane model. Topics include equipment setup, service models, staffing, and community engagement. Perfect for libraries looking to start or enhance their digitization efforts. | Robbins |
| 8 | 8:30 PM – 9:45 PM | Enhancing Your Family History with Artificial Intelligence | Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the way genealogists approach research and discovery. In this session, you will learn how AI tools can enhance family history work by helping with tasks such as transcribing, translating, and analyzing records. We will explore practical examples of how AI can save time and open new research possibilities, while also discussing its limitations and how to use it responsibly. Participants will have the opportunity for hands-on practice with AI tools to see how they can be applied directly to their own genealogy projects. Whether you are just beginning or have years of research experience, this class will provide fresh insights and practical skills for using AI in your family history journey. | Baird | |
| Wednesday 14 October |
9 | 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM | DNA Foundations for Genealogists and Librarians: Can DNA help solve my genealogy problem? |
A lot of people think of DNA as a “miracle cure all” for genealogy problems. While DNA can be a helpful tool, it cannot solve every genealogy problem and must be used in conjunction with documentary research for contextual understanding. This presentation covers what all genealogists and librarians need to know to determine when to use DNA, which DNA test to take, and how to approach genetic genealogy. | Trotter-Martin |
| 10 | 8:30 PM – 9:45 PM | Building Bridges: Strengthening Community Connections in Genealogy Services (Panel) | Libraries play a vital role in connecting people to their family history—and to each other. This session explores how libraries can build meaningful partnerships with genealogical societies, FamilySearch Centers, other libraries, and fellow genealogy librarians. Panelists will share strategies for collaboration, resource sharing, joint programming, and community outreach that enhance services and expand impact. Whether you’re looking to start small or scale up, this session offers practical ideas for fostering a stronger, more connected genealogy network. | Holdiman, Kaufman, Lee, Skardon | |
| Wednesday 21 October |
11 | 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM | Inspiring the Next Generation: Youth-Focused Family History Programming (Panel) | Engaging young people in family history is a growing priority for libraries. In this session, librarians will share quick overviews of successful youth programs—from superhero-themed genealogy lessons to family history story times, summer camps, and art-based activities. Come away with fresh ideas and proven strategies to spark curiosity and connection across generations. | Camp, Grubbs, Smith, Trout, Vermeulen |
| 12 | 8:30 PM – 9:45 PM | Charting the Future: Emerging Trends in Genealogy for Librarians (Panel) | Genealogy is evolving—and libraries can be key players in its future. This session explores trends like AI-assisted research, expanding digital archives, and inclusive programming. Learn how libraries can adapt services, engage new audiences, and stay ahead in supporting family history research. | Everett, Taylor, Turner, Witcher |