[Publib] Genealogy collections

[Andrew.Jelen at wfpl.net]

We had a genealogy collection in a separate room from the rest of the 
library for about eight years.  I was the (sole) genealogy librarian for 
the last five.  We never could staff it for the same hours as the rest of 
the library.  Since I worked full time, it was especially difficult to 
staff during Saturdays, the prime day for in-person genealogy research, 
and at night, popular with working people.  The different hours were very 
unpopular and often lead to confusion from visitors.  Now our genealogy 
collection in on the library's main floor next to the reference desk.  The 
genealogists miss the many tables and dedicated computers, but much prefer 
the fuller hours.

I would have a serious look at who you would use to staff a genealogy room 
and how many hours that will allow.  It won't be worth a separate room if 
you can't be open on Saturdays.  I think having the genealogy room closed 
above 15 hours more a week than the rest of the library will lead to 
problems and hard feelings.


Andrew Jelen


-------------------------------------------------
Andrew C. Jelen
Collection Development Manager
Wichita Falls Public Library
600 11th Street
Wichita Falls, Texas  76301-4604
(940) 767-0868 x228
andrew.jelen at wfpl.net
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