Genealogy 101

If you’re just getting started researching your genealogy, take a look at our webpage Welcome to Genealogy for helpful tips, forms, and links. We also have this information in a packet that you may request at the Service Center on your next visit to the Library.

One-on-one help

Do you have genealogy or local history questions? Consider requesting a Book an Expert appointment with our Genealogy & Local History Librarian, Nancy Gaynor.

Upcoming programs:

Developing a Sixth Census: Finding More in the Census Than Meets the Eye
Sunday, January 12, 2-3:30 pm
Are you seeing everything in a Census record? Do you know the Census products that are available? Dr. Dan Hubbard will open your eyes to the wealth of information found tine the U.S. and state Census records. Appropriate for the beginning researcher. Register to attend.

Can I Use That In My Genealogy?
Sunday, February 9, 2-3:30 pm
Are you aware that certain documents and photos that are part of your family history research may be restricted by copyright? Don’t panic– Thomas McEntee will help you understand how to determine if an item is copyrighted and how it can and can’t be used. Appropriate for beginner researchers. Register to attend.

Online genealogy library resources:

Additional online resources:

Family Search – A free personal account is needed to search thousands of worldwide databases. While many records are viewable from home, some have restricted access. CAPL is now an Affiliate Library and many of those records are accessible in the Library.

Find A Grave – Volunteers worldwide have contributed to this collection of gravesite memorials.

McHenry County Genealogical Society

Illinois Genealogical Society

Local history collection:

Items in our local history collection include Cary-Grove High School yearbooks (years 1968, 1972-present), Cary veteran photo compilation, Cary Garden Club records, Cary Cemetery gravestone photos, and more.