Professional Genealogy. a Manual for Researchers, Writers, Editors, Lecturers, and Librarians

I borrowed a copy of this book from my local library as I have been exploring the possibility of self-employment in this field. I found a LOT of good ideas that I had never thought of before!!!! Once I can afford to, I plan to purchase a copy of this book so I can refer to it INDEFINITELY!!!!

This book was a splurge for me, but one that I can definitely say was well worth it! I thought I knew quite a bit about genealogy research, but this book has taught me so much more. Each chapter is written by a professional genealogist who specializes in the topic. While some chapters are geared towards genealogists starting their own research business, most are helpful to all genealogists. Lots of excellent examples of proper research methods and techniques.

You don't have to be a professional to benefit immensely from Professional Genealogy. I purchased this book when I first began offering my services as a professional researcher, and wished I had acquired it sooner. The book is filled with useful information for professional and hobbyist alike, such as tips on building a library of "essential texts" (including an extensive list of resources for ethnic research), samples of research reports and guidelines for proper reporting, steps for determining the validity of a document, as well as the validity of published research...the list goes on. Each chapter has been created by a different expert in the field of genealogy, it is well cited, and gives a list of further recommended reading. I used this text everyday as I was developing my company, and it walked me through the complicated process of writing business plans, creating and executing contracts, organizing, filing, and marketing. This is the perfect gift for the aspiring professional, or anyone who is serious about genealogical research.

Ably edited by Elizabeth Mills, Professional Genealogy: A Manual For Researchers, Writers, Editors, Lecturers, And Librarians is a core title for any private or professional genealogical reference book collection. Family historians wanting to do independent study, genealogy students needed to familiarize themselves with research standards and resources, professionals in search of benchmarks against which to measure their skills and expertise, will find Professional Genealogy to be an expansive (680 pages) encyclopedia text and indexed reference of immense practical value in the field of genealogical research and recording.

This comprehensive manual for professional genealogists is a "must have" for any serious genealogical researcher. Each chapter, which contains sections written by 23 professional genealogists, covers a different aspect of using professional skills to produce quality work. The topics covered include every aspect of professional genealogy, from legalities and ethics, to education, research, compiling research reports, and publishing. Although the manual is intended for professional genealogists, I would strongly recommend it to every hobbyist. There are chapters which are obviously more useful to the professional, such as, "Career Management", but most of the topics simply pertain to producing quality work, and would benefit the serious hobbyist. With 654 pages, it covers the same amount of material as several "lighter" books. It would be hard to imagine a question that is not covered by this manual, which is destined to become the standard in this field.