#AtoZChallenge - E is for eResources, Encyclopedias and Evidence
Libraries are as much about digital resources these days as physical 3D items.
If you haven't already availed yourself of membership of your local public library card, you are missing out.
Make sure you have a library card for your state library and the national library too. All of them have access to different eResources and it would be a shame to not use them. Check out some of the offerings here, here and here.
Looking for a genealogical encyclopedia? Look no further than Eastman's. But if you want to hold something in your hands and flick through it then the Who Do You Think You Are: the encylopedia of genealogy : the definitive reference guide to tracing your family history by Nick Barrett isn't bad either.
"There is nothing like first-hand evidence"
A Study in Scarlet Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Evidence Explained by Elizabeth Shown-Mills seems to be the bible and I bought a 2nd-hand copy on Abebooks as previously highlighted by the lovely Carmel. I'd be lying if I said I'd read it. You really don't read this book. It's more of a reference tool.
If you find it too intimidating (it is a rather weighty tome) then something like Citing historical sources: a manual for family historians by Noeline Kyle should be the ticket.
If you want to drill down into whether or not your work will pass muster with the genealogy police, then you might also want to grab a copy of Genealogical Proof Standard: Building a Solid Case by Christine Rose.
Of course a Style Manual never goes astray either.....all family historians want to be known as stylish.
Here is evidence of me being stylish for a second last year travelling home from Canada on the Dreamliner. Thankfully I have stylish friends who lend me their wardrobes so I can fool everyone ;) Yes, I may have indulged in some wine a little later into the flight.
What do you think about evidence, proof, standards and style? Are the benchmarks too high or too low?
Comments
However, as a librarian I do believe in getting your research right, whatever it is. And yes, the State Library of Victoria is an excellent place for research and my card enables me to use their various e resources from home. Even the local library can afford to subscribe to Britannica and Choice. I draw my students' attention to the usefulness of being a member, even if you never go there(though some do, to do homework when they don't have the Internet at home).
We are very lucky in our National Library. I haven't found another one that has the likes of Trove. Pity the budget has been scrapped for that so no updates now, while this government is in power!
Eresources through our State and National libraries are marvellous :)
Visiting from A to Z and Australian Family History Bloggers
E is for Eden Park, home of Wentworth Cavenagh
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Anne Young
Anne's family history
Today on my list of favourite things, E is for Emma Garland
I believe in diligence and accuracy but agree we must provide evidence to support our assertions but I will not be bound by a complex set of rules developed by an American 'expert'. I will cite clearly and concisely so that anyone wanting to check out my sources will be able to find them. If I have to cite properly for publication then Harvard is my choice.
Jill - Blogging the #AtoZChallenge at ballau.blogspot.com
Absolutely Amazing Alliteration
very Enchanting & yes I love to read the Encyclopedia :-)
I agree with you that everyone should have a library card though our system (like education) is below the mark.
Happy A to Zing
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