The Genealogists Computer Companion

Product Description Explains how to use the computer, the Internet, and genealogical software to trace one's family history. From Library Journal Using a computer and the resources of the Internet can provide genealogists with some of their best and their worst research experiences, as countless hours can be wasted aimlessly surfing for surnames and many hours saved by entering data into a genealogical program. Webmaster McClure's latest book explains how anyone can use a computer, genealogical software, and the Internet to optimize research. Heavily illustrated and replete with tips from fellow experts, the book opens with a brief overview of computer usage basics before diving headlong into web-publishing guidelines, selection of the right genealogy software, and the various Internet venues where one might encounter data and/or fellow researchers. McClure discusses the benefits of Internet directories and search engines for thorough genealogical digging, considers mailing lists, chat rooms, and newsgroups, and explains how to reap the rewards of online library catalogs and databases and select and use scanners. A glossary of terms, an appendix of state and country web sites, and a particularly helpful section on the Latter Day Saints' International Genealogical Index are also included. While McClure's own Complete Idiot's Guide to Online Genealogy (Alpha, 2000), coauthored with Shirley Langon Wilcox, and Elizabeth Crowe's Genealogy Online (LJ 6/1/01. 5th ed.) provide more in-depth introductions to online research, this book's coverage of contemporary "computers and genealogy" issues makes it worthwhile to have at hand. Recommended for genealogy library collections. (Index not seen.) Elaine M. Kuhn, Allen Cty. P.L., Ft. Wayne, IN Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc. From Booklist McClure, author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Online Genealogy (1999), provides a more advanced lesson in utilizing online resources for genealogical research. After a thorough examination of how best to use the computer as a research tool, she launches into a more in-depth discussion about accessing electronic databases, using genealogy software, and successfully navigating the World Wide Web in search of credible information. An especially valuable strategy for combining the use of online resources with library research is introduced. Handy tips for preserving precious documents and photographs electronically are also supplied. Considering the fact that the advent of the home computer and the availability of the Internet have contributed to a recent boom in the genealogy field, this indispensable guide will be in much demand. Margaret Flanagan Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved About the Author Rhonda McClure is a professional genealogist, and the Web Site Sysop for the Ultimate Family Tree web site. She is the author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Online Genealogy. She attends and often lectures at all of the national conferences, including the annual GENTECH (Genealogy and Technology) Conference. Rhonda resides in St. Cloud, Florida, with her husband and four children.