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Step 1
Ask the local librarian for a recommendation. On the local level, libraries are members of cooperatives, consortiums, regions usually made-up of several counties and exchanges that share information and services for patrons.
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Step 2
Inquire locally from college and university librarians. Often hosts of regional conferences, universities are a wealth of information for local residents. Use of public institutions' libraries is usually free with a valid state driver's license.
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Step 3
Request the state library for a recommendation. On the state level, libraries are also members of exchanges that share information and services for patrons.
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Step 4
Contact the National Archives. In college Park, MD and Washington, DC, there are national public libraries with free access to exclusive library-only Internet sites that specialize in genealogy and print genealogical materials, including hundreds of books and microfilms.
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Step 5
Choose a well-known genealogical research library from a "Top 10 List" compiled by esteemed genealogists, such as Dick Eastman who hosts, "Eastman's Online Genealogy Newsletter," one of the top read blogs in the world for family history research.
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Step 6
Join a local genealogical or historical association. Networking with like-minded individuals is a great way to gain information. Experienced genealogists love to talk about their road trips doing research. Listen and learn from their expertise.
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Step 7
Attend a genealogy workshop. Local groups and affiliates host annual meetings and workshops. The schedules frequently have several classes for varied interests and a luncheon option, which allows for networking. Most classes have a question and answer period, too.
