History: Genealogy and Local History

Charge

The Genealogy and Local History Committee provides a forum serving the interests of genealogists and librarians whose work is in, or related to, the fields of genealogy and local history. Committee members represent large and small genealogical and local history collections in public, special, university and society libraries. This committee creates opportunities to discuss the issues and concerns related to the management of local history and genealogy collections and services.
 
This committee includes the following subcommittees:
  • Genealogy Pre-Conference: coordinates activities for the Annual conference
  • Genealogy and History Achievement Award: administers an annual award of $1,500 to a librarian, library, or publisher to encourage, recognize, and commend professional achievement in historical reference and research librarianship. Preference shall be given to members of RUSA and shall be selected for exceptional accomplishment related to bibliography, book reviewing, indexing, professional association leadership, programs, and training. 

Those interested in volunteering for this committee should complete a committee volunteer form.

Objectives

  • Plan programs (virtual and/or face-to-face) related to genealogy and local history, such as webinars, courses, and online discussions
  • Coordinate genealogy pre-conference activities for the Annual conference
  • Coordinate local history tour for the Annual conference
  • Ensure genealogy- and local history-related Guidelines and other online resources are maintained
  • Support the Genealogy and Local History Discussion Group

Roster

Tina Beaird (Chair, July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2025)
Mr. Byron Holdiman (Vice-Chair, July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2024)
Cynthia D. Earman (Member, July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2024)
Kristy Eklund (Member, July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2024)
Ms. Michelle Renee Enke (Member, July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2024)
Joe Everett (Member, July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2025)
Mr. William John Forsyth (Member, July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2024)
Bill Ladewski (RUSA Executive Director, October 8, 2018, to December 31, 2099)
Ninah Moore (Staff Liaison, October 1, 2018, to December 31, 2099)
Shuntai Sykes (Staff Liaison, October 1, 2018, to December 31, 2099)
Melissa Vanyek (Staff Liaison, October 1, 2018, to December 31, 2099)

Previous Year / Next Year

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Genealogy Guidelines and Standards

Composition

See RUSA or Section Bylaws.

Subcommitees and Task Forces

See RUSA or Section Bylaws.

Find us in Connect

Find this committee in ALA Connect (log-in required):

https://connect.ala.org/rusa/communities/community-home?CommunityKey=1e0aec95-b4f6-4d14-a54c-ce2d38c74bc9

Origin

See Committee Charge.

Get Involved

ALA values committed and active committee members. Qualified members are welcome to volunteer to serve on [insert committee name here]. Committee members must have an interest in the work of the committee; be able to attend Annual Conferences and Midwinter Meetings to participate in the meetings and activities of the committee; and be able to work between conferences via e-mail and ALA Connect. Express your interest in serving on this or other committees by filling out an application form. Appointments take place once a year, during the spring. Committee service usually begins following Annual Conference, about July 1.

Staff Liaison

Ninah Moore

Training and Events Coordinator

nmoore@ala.org