Activity Details
Title: Genealogical Resource Overview Tours & Presentations
Narrative: To introduce specific genealogical resources from the Library of Virginia to adults, education staff gave tours of the reading rooms, assisted participants in getting library cards, and went over genealogical resources with participants. Education staff maintained phone and email contact with interested groups and answer inquires; assisted tour groups with parking, directions, and logistics; established learning priorities of tours; researched and booked tour dates with facilities calendars; took registration; coordinated the library staff who might also be involved; and led the tours. Once the COVID-19 pandemic began, staff shifted these genealogy tours and overview of resources to be virtual presentations.
During the reporting period the following tours and presentations were conducted:
Tuesday, November 3, 2020
Genealogy Presentation: Afro-American Historical Association
Attendance: 12
Thursday, November 19, 2020
Genealogy Presentation: Arlington County 55+ Travel Program
Attendance: 18
Thursday, January 21, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Arlington Co. 55+ Travel Group
Attendance: 20
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Genworth Financial African American Resource Group
Attendance: 25
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Libbie Mill Public Library
Attendance: 15
Thursday, February 11, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Afro-American Historical Association of Fauquier Co. (AAHA)
Attendance: 12
Thursday, February 17, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Genworth Financial African American Resource Group
Attendance: 27
Monday, March 8, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: University of Richmond’s OSHER Institute
Attendance: 21
Thursday, March 11, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Afro-American Historical Association of Fauquier Co.
Attendance: 15
Genealogy Presentation
Thursday, March 18, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Arlington Co. 55 Plus Travel Group
Attendance: 14
Tuesday, March 23, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Louisville Genealogy Society
Attendance: 154
Thursday, April 1, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: The Towers Retirement Home
Attendance: 6
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Nelson Memorial Library
Attendance: 4
Thursday, April 8, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Virginia Beach Genealogical Society
Attendance: 49
Monday, April 12, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Lousia Co. Public Library
Attendance: 6
Thursday, April 22, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Arlington Co. 55 Plus Travel Group
Attendance: 15
Tuesday, April 27, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Genealogical Research Institute of Virginia (GRIVA)
Attendance: 235
Thursday, May 13, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: The Towers Retirement Home
Attendance: 10
Tuesday, May 18, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: National Genealogical SLAM Live!
Attendance: 343
Thursday, May 20, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Arlington Co. 55 Plus Travel Group
Attendance: 15
Thursday, May 20, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Greene Co. Public Library
Attendance: 10
Saturday, June 12, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Black Family and Genealogy Society
Attendance: 30
Thursday, June 17, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Arlington Co. 55 Plus Travel Group
Attendance: 6
Thursday, July 22, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Arlington Co. 55 Plus Travel Group
Attendance: 10
Thursday, August 5, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Kentucky Genealogical Society
Attendance: 98
Thursday, August 19, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Arlington Co. 55 Plus Travel Group
Attendance: 11
Thursday, August 26, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Arlington Co. 55 Plus Travel Group
Attendance: 17
Thursday, September 2, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Castle Rock Genealogical Society
Attendance: 21
Friday, September 17, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Truckee Meadows Community College
Attendance: 31
Thursday, September 20, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Arlington Co. 55 Plus Travel Group
Attendance: 12
Thursday, September 23, 2021
Genealogy Presentation: Arlington Co. 55 Plus Travel Group
Attendance: 10
Intent: Improve users’ ability to obtain and/or use information resources.
Activity: Instruction
Mode: Presentation/performance
Format: Virtual
Quantity
Presentation/performance length (minutes): 60
Number of presentations/performances administered: 31
Average number in attendance per session: 41
Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: No
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No
Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No
Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: No
For a targeted group or for the general population: General
Locale
Is the activity state-wide: No
Specific Locations: Yes
Name: Library of Virginia
Address: 800 East Broad St.
City: Richmond
State: VA
Zip: 23219
Activity Details
Title: Virtual Genealogy Workshops
Narrative: Due to COVID-19, all the Library of Virginia's in-person genealogy workshops were shifted into a virtual workshop form.
Virtual Genealogy Workshop
Historic Census Records at the Library of Virginia
Friday, October 16, 2020
Time: 10:00 am
Place: Online
Attendance: 24
United States records provide a framework for the initial genealogical research as well as offering significant clues to comprehending a bigger picture of a person’s life- his or her family relations, community, migration, and livelihood. Led by Library of Virginia editor John Deal, this workshop will demonstrate research strategies, tips for finding missing ancestors, and ways to mind the census for more information. Contact Ashley Ramey at
ashley.ramey@lva.virginia.gov or 804.692.3001 for more information.
“Thank you! Looking forward to many more webinars in 2021!”
Virtual Genealogy Workshop
Finding Her: Our Female Ancestor
Friday, November 20, 2020
Time: 10:00 am
Place: Online
Attendance: 41
Melissa Tennant, assistant manager of the Genealogy Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana, leads this workshop focused on finding female ancestors. Though our female ancestors may be elusive, by understanding their roles in other people’s lives and community, we can find a variety of records documenting their lives. This workshop complements the Library’s exhibition We Demand: Women’s Suffrage in Virginia. For more information, contact Ashley Ramey at ashley.ramey@lva.virginia.gov or 804.692.3001.
“Excellent Presentation Melissa. Thank you!”
“Thank you SO MUCH. An amazing amount of great information! Thanks Melissa!
“Wonderful presentation !”
Virtual Genealogy Workshop
How to Trace Your Virginia Roots
Friday, March 12, 2021
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Place: Virtual/Online
Attendance: 126
Library of Virginia archivist Amanda Morell and reference services librarian Ann-Marie Hatton introduce you to the types of records in the Library’s collections to help you get started with your Virginia-based genealogical research. We encourage you to view the resources available on our Family History Playlist on YouTube before attending the workshop. Contact Ashley Ramey at ashley.ramey@lva.virginia.gov or 804.692.3001 for more information.
“Thanks for the great webinar! Very concise. Well done. And thanks for the supplemental files.”
“Thank you for this informative webinar…”
“Great review after being back in VA.”
Virtual Genealogy Workshop
Private Papers at the Library of Virginia
Friday, April 9th, 2021
Time: 10:00 am -11:00 am
Place: Virtual/Online
Attendance: 47
In addition to state and county records, the Library of Virginia holds nongovernment papers such as Bible records, family papers, letters, organization records, and business records. Library staff members Trenton Hizer (senior manuscripts acquisition and digital archivist) and Ginny Dunn (archives and library reference services manager) introduce you to the Private Papers Collection and the valuable information they contain. They will also share tips on how you can preserve your own family papers. Contact Ashley Ramey at ashley.ramey@lva.virginia.gov or 804.692.3001 for more information.
“Very informative!”
“Please forward my thanks to the entire staff for everything they did during the private papers presentation. It was beyond insightful. The organization and information was FANTASTIC!!! You all ROCKED this webinar… Excellent job!!!”
Virtual Genealogy Workshop
Portals to a Jewish Heritage: Researching Jewish Genealogy with a Southern Accent
Friday, May 7th, 2021
Time: 10:00 am -11:00 am
Place: Virtual/Online
Attendance: 14
Even the most avid students of Jewish genealogy find that the thousands of databases, books, and websites devoted to the subject can make their quest for information a daunting one. What you really need is a knowledgeable guide and some practical tips and strategies.
Karen S. Franklin is ready to provide them as she outlines the process to successfully explore general family history websites such as Ancestry.com, as well as online sites exclusive to Jewish genealogy such as JewishGen.org, and, of course, local archives and libraries. Franklin will feature a Richmond Jewish family as she demonstrates how to use these tools. Contact Ashley Ramey at ashley.ramey@lva.virginia.gov or 804.692.3001 for more information.
“Thank you so much !”
“Thank you. This was very helpful!”
Virtual Genealogy Workshop
African American Migration
Friday, Jun 11, 2021
Time: 10:00 am -11:00 am
Place: Virtual/Online
Attendance: 28
During this workshop, Library of Virginia reference archivist Cara Griggs will provide an overview of the types of records in the Library of Virginia’s holdings that track free and enslaved Americans involved with the international and domestic slavery trade, as well as other migrations within Virginia, including those resulting from voluntary relocations and the settlement of enslavers' estates. Contact Ashley Ramey at ashley.ramey@lva.virginia.gov or 804.692.3001 for more information.
“Thank you! This was so informative”
“Very Good!”
Virtual Genealogy Workshop
Early Virginia Genealogy
Friday, July 9, 2021
Time: 10:00 am -11:00 am
Place: Virtual/Online
Attendance: 69
Explore the methods and resources for researching Virginia genealogy prior to 1850. Library of Virginia reference archivist Cara Griggs presents ways that information can be found despite record loss and records that lack detail. This workshop includes an overview of colonial government, focusing on a variety of record types that will help place an individual in a particular time and location and to potentially link generations together (provided that records survive). These include census records, tax records, and the records of religious organizations. Contact Ashley Ramey at ashley.ramey@lva.virginia.gov or 804.692.3001 for more information.
“This was a great presentation!”
“Thank you!”
Virtual Genealogy Workshop
To Common Defense: Military Records for Genealogical Research -Part 1
Friday, August 6, 2021
Time: 10:00 am -11:00 am
Place: Virtual/Online
Attendance: 23
The Library of Virginia is the most important repository of military records of Virginians who served in various ways from Virginia’s founding to the end of World War II. Ginny Dunn (Archives & Library Reference Services Manager) will present records unique to the Library, as well as records available on microfilm and in digital format from institutions such as the National Archives, including printed sources. Part One will focus on military records prior to the Civil War, while Part Two will cover records from the Civil War to World War II. Contact Ashley Ramey at ashley.ramey@lva.virginia.gov or 804.692.3001 for more information.
“Very informative, thank you!”
“This was fantastic, thank you very much!”
Virtual Genealogy Workshop
To Common Defense: Military Records for Genealogical Research - Part 2
Friday, August 20, 2021
Time: 10:00 am -11:00 am
Place: Virtual/Online
Attendance: 19
The Library of Virginia is the most important repository of military records of Virginians who served in various ways from Virginia’s founding to the end of World War II. Ginny Dunn (Archives & Library Reference Services Manager) will present records unique to the Library, as well as records available on microfilm and in digital format from institutions such as the National Archives, including printed sources. Part One focused on military records prior to the Civil War, while Part Two will cover records from the Civil War to World War II. Contact Ashley Ramey at ashley.ramey@lva.virginia.gov or 804.692.3001 for more information.
“Thank you! Great job!”
“Thank you all for this insightful gathering! Appreciate it!”
Virtual Genealogy Workshop
Cemetery Records at the Library of Virginia
Friday, September 10, 2021
Time: 10:00 am -11:45 am
Place: Virtual/Online
Attendance: 43
Library of Virginia senior reference archivist Dawn Tinnell will provide an overview of cemetery records and other related death records and how they can help with genealogical research. Virginia Commonwealth University professor of history Ryan K. Smith will give examples of what he has found in cemetery records and related death records and how those findings relate to what can be discovered in the cemeteries themselves. Contact Ashley Ramey at ashley.ramey@lva.virginia.gov or 804.692.3001 for more information.
“ Great presentation! Lots of good information”
“Thank you to everyone! This was a great presentation and great questions!”
Intent: Improve users’ ability to obtain and/or use information resources.
Activity: Instruction
Mode: Presentation/performance
Format: Virtual
Quantity
Presentation/performance length (minutes): 60
Number of presentations/performances administered: 10
Average number in attendance per session: 43
Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: No
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No
Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No
Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: No
For a targeted group or for the general population: General
Locale
Is the activity state-wide: No
Specific Locations: Yes
Name: Library of Virginia
Address: 800 East Broad St.
City: Richmond
State: VA
Zip: 23219
Activity Details
Title: Virtual Genealogy Conference & Virtual Booth
Narrative:
Virtual Genealogy Conference & Virtual Booth
Wednesday, October 15 - October 17, 2020
Afro-American Historical & Genealogical Society
Attendance: 67
The AAHGS Annual Conference is the largest international African American conference that promotes African-ancestored family history, genealogy, and cultural diversity by bringing together subject matter experts who promote scholarly research, provide resources for historical and genealogical studies, create a network of persons with similar interests, and assist members in documenting their histories. Typical attendees are historians, genealogists, researchers, scholars, educators, preservationists, media, and beginners. Library of Virginia staff members hosted a virtual booth for this conference, open to all attendees.
The Booth was available for any attendees to "visit" virtually the entire conference (24 hours a day, 3 days).
Conference:
Thursday, February 25 - Sunday, February 2021
RootsTech Conference
Virtual Booth
Intent: Improve users’ ability to obtain and/or use information resources.
Activity: Instruction
Mode: Presentation/performance
Format: Virtual
Quantity
Presentation/performance length (minutes): 15
Number of presentations/performances administered: 0
Average number in attendance per session: 67
Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: No
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No
Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No
Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: No
For a targeted group or for the general population: General
Locale
Is the activity state-wide: No
Specific Locations: Yes
Name: Library of Virginia
Address: 800 East Broad St.
City: Richmond
State: VA
Zip: 23219
Activity Details
Title: Virtual Program: Using the FamilySearch Database at the Library
Narrative: Using the FamilySearch Database at the Library
Wednesday, December 2, 2020 6:00pm-7:00pm
Online
Free, but registration required
Attendance: 274
The Library of Virginia recently became an affiliate library of FamilySearch, which offers the largest collection of digitized genealogical records in the world. Join us for a free virtual webinar to learn more about this amazing resource. David Rencher, FamilySearch’s chief genealogical officer and director of its Family History Library, will discuss the affiliate library program and how to use the database, including access to millions of images.
While visiting the Library, users can access the FamilySearch database from one of our eight public computers or from their own devices using our Wi-Fi. A free, easy-to-set-up FamilySearch account is required to access these resources from the Library’s reading rooms. For more information, contact Ashley Ramey at ashley.ramey@lva.virginia.gov or 804.692.3001.
“This was awesome! Thank you!”
“Thanks for the wonderful work you provide for family researchers!”
Intent: Improve users’ ability to obtain and/or use information resources.
Activity: Instruction
Mode: Presentation/performance
Format: Virtual
Quantity
Presentation/performance length (minutes): 60
Number of presentations/performances administered: 1
Average number in attendance per session: 274
Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: No
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No
Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No
Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: No
For a targeted group or for the general population: General
Locale
Is the activity state-wide: No
Specific Locations: Yes
Name: Library of Virginia
Address: 800 East Broad St.
City: Richmond
State: VA
Zip: 23219
Activity Details
Title: Genealogy Virtual Book Talk
Narrative: Genealogy Book Talk
Thursday, February 18, 2021
Time: 6:00 pm - 7:30pm
Place: Virtual/Online
Cost: Free
Registration required
Attendance: 306
Join us for a virtual genealogical book lecture by retired physician and geneticist Bettye Kearse, author of The Other Madisons: The Lost History of a President’s Black Family. Kearse—a descendant of an enslaved cook and, according to oral tradition, President James Madison—shares her family story and explores the issues of legacy, race, and the powerful consequences of telling the whole truth. Part personal quest, part testimony, part historical correction, the book is the saga of an extraordinary American family told by a griotte in search of the whole story. For more information, contact Ashley Ramey at ashley.ramey@lva.virginia.gov or 804.692.3001.
“ Thank you for giving us additional Virginia history that we normally don’t hear about!”
“I really enjoyed this and I learned so much.”
“I really enjoyed last evening’s book talk! Thanks for making it available.”
Intent: Improve users’ ability to obtain and/or use information resources.
Activity: Instruction
Mode: Presentation/performance
Format: Virtual
Quantity
Presentation/performance length (minutes): 90
Number of presentations/performances administered: 1
Average number in attendance per session: 306
Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: No
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No
Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No
Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: No
For a targeted group or for the general population: General
Locale
Is the activity state-wide: No
Specific Locations: Yes
Name: Library of Virginia
Address: 800 East Broad St.
City: Richmond
State: VA
Zip: 23219
