Family History Databases - July promotion
It's time to visit or revisit the most popular family history databases. You may already be familiar with the first two, Ancestry.com and Findmypast. However the third database Internet History Resources (IHR) may be new to you.
Hopefully in this promotion you will discover new material or investigate the range of search options if you use the databases regularly as new data sets are added all the time. If you have not used any of them before the databases offer enormous amounts of information for the family researcher.
Ancestry.com
Ancestry helps you find your family tree connections quickly and easily. The more criteria the search engine has the more likely it is to pull the best matches to the top.
Why would I use this?
Large number of records available for Australia and the world.
Organisations such as State Records N.S.W and National Archives of Australia contribute records which are indexed and access is provided to a digital image of the original record.
What do I need to know?
It is only accessible via the Library website in the Library
It is the most comprehensive collection of online family resources
Offers basic search with the following parameters : first/ middle names, last name, birth year, death year, birth location, death location
Offers advanced searching with additional criteria such as residence, relatives, marriage year, gender,etc.
Each database searched provides options of related databases on the right hand side of the screen
It should be used in conjunction with other family history resources in order to locate and or verify information.
Military sources are not all that plentiful or useful for Australians
Don't forget this is an American database and searching for Australian records needs to be specified in the search. If not American records will always appear at the top of the list.
Features
Allows you to narrow searches using names, locations dates and record types
The format used to present database information is consistent using the following subheadings: information about, information on searching the records, list what information in records included. This is useful for understanding what are the advantages and limitations of particular records.
Practice
Find two locations where ancestor by the name Lucy Hare lived between 1933 and 1970
(Hint: use the electoral rolls)
Find a female convict by the name Jane Armstrong (b.1804) sent to Australia. What date did she arrive here and what was the name of the vessel. What age was she said to be?
Find an arrival from the UK to Australia for John F Beeston (born : 8 September 1859) between the years 1890 and 1960. What date did he depart the UK and where did he disembark In Australia?
Findmypast.com
It was originally known as WorldVitalRecords which commenced in 2010. It now also offers a gateway to all the records available in the United Kingdom.
Why would I use this?
It has more than 135 million records available.
Data comes from a great range of sources.
It is good for tracking Australians serving in the military
What do I need to know?
It is only available via the Library website in the Library
There are armed forces records, details of people from many professions - police gazettes, some supreme court records, probate and migration records
Limited range of databases to search with the emphasis being on Queensland and databases offered by Gould genealogy which are also available in the Sutherland Reference Room on CD ROM
Features
Filters to refine searches by country (and state where available) and category providing many pathways to the records.
Name variant option provides a means of location entries where spelling differences or transcription errors occur.
Practice
Find an arrival in Australia for Johann Brohman. What ship did he come on and in what year?Name one other source his name appears in. What type of event was it?
Find any World War One military information on Jack Buckle from Menai (remember first name variations). What is the source? What date did he enlist? What unit did he belong to?
Internet History Resources
Based on information sources taken from Mitchell Library of NSW and Armidale Archives
Why should I use this?
It is a small database of records and useful for specific searches like Sands Directories. In some instances it covers years that Ancestry.com does not. For example electoral rolls for N.S.W (1870-71, 1878-79)
What do I need to know?
It is only available via the Library website in the Library
Images of historical documents which contain information to find people who lived and worked In N.S.W between 1850 and 1920.
It is a failrly old database now and most of the sources can be located in other databases.
Source information is limited (extracted mostly from government gazettes and electoral rolls) and should only be used for specific searches.
Although the database can be searched by anyone only members have full access to the information contained in this database.
Features
Records complement and build information obtained from other sources such as the State Archives NSW kit
Records include directories, electoral rolls other occupations such as poundkeepers.
Practise
What is the street address for Giddings Store in Cronulla in 1930?
What was the cause of death given at the inquest for James Carey of Sydney who died on 12 April 1869?
That's it for the family history resources. If you have any questions let me know
Have fun
Helen
Hopefully in this promotion you will discover new material or investigate the range of search options if you use the databases regularly as new data sets are added all the time. If you have not used any of them before the databases offer enormous amounts of information for the family researcher.
Ancestry.com
Ancestry helps you find your family tree connections quickly and easily. The more criteria the search engine has the more likely it is to pull the best matches to the top.
Why would I use this?
Large number of records available for Australia and the world.
Organisations such as State Records N.S.W and National Archives of Australia contribute records which are indexed and access is provided to a digital image of the original record.
What do I need to know?
It is only accessible via the Library website in the Library
It is the most comprehensive collection of online family resources
Offers basic search with the following parameters : first/ middle names, last name, birth year, death year, birth location, death location
Offers advanced searching with additional criteria such as residence, relatives, marriage year, gender,etc.
Each database searched provides options of related databases on the right hand side of the screen
It should be used in conjunction with other family history resources in order to locate and or verify information.
Military sources are not all that plentiful or useful for Australians
Don't forget this is an American database and searching for Australian records needs to be specified in the search. If not American records will always appear at the top of the list.
Features
Allows you to narrow searches using names, locations dates and record types
The format used to present database information is consistent using the following subheadings: information about, information on searching the records, list what information in records included. This is useful for understanding what are the advantages and limitations of particular records.
Practice
Find two locations where ancestor by the name Lucy Hare lived between 1933 and 1970
(Hint: use the electoral rolls)
Find a female convict by the name Jane Armstrong (b.1804) sent to Australia. What date did she arrive here and what was the name of the vessel. What age was she said to be?
Find an arrival from the UK to Australia for John F Beeston (born : 8 September 1859) between the years 1890 and 1960. What date did he depart the UK and where did he disembark In Australia?
Findmypast.com
It was originally known as WorldVitalRecords which commenced in 2010. It now also offers a gateway to all the records available in the United Kingdom.
Why would I use this?
It has more than 135 million records available.
Data comes from a great range of sources.
It is good for tracking Australians serving in the military
What do I need to know?
It is only available via the Library website in the Library
There are armed forces records, details of people from many professions - police gazettes, some supreme court records, probate and migration records
Limited range of databases to search with the emphasis being on Queensland and databases offered by Gould genealogy which are also available in the Sutherland Reference Room on CD ROM
Features
Filters to refine searches by country (and state where available) and category providing many pathways to the records.
Name variant option provides a means of location entries where spelling differences or transcription errors occur.
Practice
Find an arrival in Australia for Johann Brohman. What ship did he come on and in what year?Name one other source his name appears in. What type of event was it?
Find any World War One military information on Jack Buckle from Menai (remember first name variations). What is the source? What date did he enlist? What unit did he belong to?
Internet History Resources
Based on information sources taken from Mitchell Library of NSW and Armidale Archives
Why should I use this?
It is a small database of records and useful for specific searches like Sands Directories. In some instances it covers years that Ancestry.com does not. For example electoral rolls for N.S.W (1870-71, 1878-79)
What do I need to know?
It is only available via the Library website in the Library
Images of historical documents which contain information to find people who lived and worked In N.S.W between 1850 and 1920.
It is a failrly old database now and most of the sources can be located in other databases.
Source information is limited (extracted mostly from government gazettes and electoral rolls) and should only be used for specific searches.
Although the database can be searched by anyone only members have full access to the information contained in this database.
Features
Records complement and build information obtained from other sources such as the State Archives NSW kit
Records include directories, electoral rolls other occupations such as poundkeepers.
Practise
What is the street address for Giddings Store in Cronulla in 1930?
What was the cause of death given at the inquest for James Carey of Sydney who died on 12 April 1869?
That's it for the family history resources. If you have any questions let me know
Have fun
Helen
Reference at the Metcalfe Seminar
Last Thursday I was lucky enough to attend the training course- Reference at the Metcalfe at the State Library.
It is truly amazing how libraries are changing to suit the needs of their clientele.
First off was 2 "folks" from Chattanooga Library (via Google Hangout), who explained how they changed their broken library into a collaborative space of shared resources, bathed in connectivity. Through careful consideration of space, staff and strategic partnerships, they were able to set up various initiatives such as the 4th Floor and the up and coming Open Chattanuga Project.
The 4th Floor started out as an event space but now consists of emerging technologies such as 3-D printers and laser cutters. There is also access to old school DIY mechanical tools such as Looms and Weavers.
Watch this space to "Borrow a garden plot"...
Visit their website: 4th Floor/ Chattanooga Library
Next up was Arapohoel Library (via Google Hangout), where they have shared technology which is slightly out of reach for the average consumer.
They now own 5 pairs of Google Glasses, which were won in a competition. These are not in circulation, due to financial risks however this type of initiative has:
It is truly amazing how libraries are changing to suit the needs of their clientele.
First off was 2 "folks" from Chattanooga Library (via Google Hangout), who explained how they changed their broken library into a collaborative space of shared resources, bathed in connectivity. Through careful consideration of space, staff and strategic partnerships, they were able to set up various initiatives such as the 4th Floor and the up and coming Open Chattanuga Project.
The 4th Floor started out as an event space but now consists of emerging technologies such as 3-D printers and laser cutters. There is also access to old school DIY mechanical tools such as Looms and Weavers.
Watch this space to "Borrow a garden plot"...
Visit their website: 4th Floor/ Chattanooga Library
Next up was Arapohoel Library (via Google Hangout), where they have shared technology which is slightly out of reach for the average consumer.
They now own 5 pairs of Google Glasses, which were won in a competition. These are not in circulation, due to financial risks however this type of initiative has:
- Changed public perception
- Attracted new patrons
- Catered to tech-savvy clients
- Great PR opportunity
Various other offerings such as circulating cameras and access to media labs... wow.
Another amazing seminar was showcasing The Cube@QUT.
The Cube is exactly that - A large interactive non-text space experience. It is the coming together of all disciplines- "STEAM"
Science/ Technology/ Engineering/Arts/ Mathematics.
Check it out- The Cube @ QUT
Check it out- The Cube @ QUT
We were lucky enough to walk around this amazing space, via a phone video and audio through the ipad.
Lubi Thomas was quick to highlite that it is not all just about the cube. It is embracing the idea of digital media and "STEAM" rather than embracing expensive hardware.
They are promoting hands on, self-directed collaborative learning through various programs which include Lego Education/ Coding and Programming/ Robotics/ Electronics and Gaming (all under education tab on home page).
On a final note, Martin did a great job of promoting our library service, showcasing our new user-friendly website.
The whole seminar can be viewed @ http://referenceandinformationservices.wikifoundry.com/page/2014
Dreaming about a small cube (or just a screen), to showcase our historical photos... One day!
Lubi Thomas was quick to highlite that it is not all just about the cube. It is embracing the idea of digital media and "STEAM" rather than embracing expensive hardware.
They are promoting hands on, self-directed collaborative learning through various programs which include Lego Education/ Coding and Programming/ Robotics/ Electronics and Gaming (all under education tab on home page).
On a final note, Martin did a great job of promoting our library service, showcasing our new user-friendly website.
The whole seminar can be viewed @ http://referenceandinformationservices.wikifoundry.com/page/2014
Dreaming about a small cube (or just a screen), to showcase our historical photos... One day!
Tynelle
Men Living Well - June database promotion
Men’s Health Week 9-15 June 2014
“Australian males born in 2007 can
expect to live 24 years longer than males born in 1901” Men's Health Week website
Men’s Health Week is a celebration of
the many wonderful and varied ways that men contribute to daily life. It’s also
a great opportunity to reflect on the role that improved mental, physical and social health can play on one's quality of life and how the benefits flow onto family, friends and our communities.
In support of men and boys in Australia, this month’s database focus is Consumer Health Complete. Let’s make those additional 24 years extraordinary!
CHC is a comprehensive
collection of consumer health information. It aims to support the information
needs of patients and those wanting to enhance their general wellbeing. This
database covers topics such as aging, cancer, diabetes, drugs & alcohol,
fitness, nutrition & diet, men & women’s health, children’s health and
much more.
Why would I use this?
- When seeking current, authoritative medical information in plain English.
- Broad range of perspectives offered (mainstream, holistic, complementary and integrated approaches) on all areas of health and wellness.
- Extensive full-text material available from a wide range of sources (encylcopedias, reference books, journals, magazines, pamphlets, videos, images and more).
What do I need to know?
- CHC is an Ebsco product (ie U.S. focus). Access to it is via your library card barcode.
- Its uncluttered, straightforward interface allows you to access information in a variety of ways. The default screen, once logged onto CHC, is the Advanced Search screen.
- The Home and Advanced Search screens provide different search options (these are listed below).
- CHC search screens are presented in English by default but provide the option of changing to Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Russian, Korean, Japanese, Simplified or Traditional Chinese, Turkish, Greek, Polish, Arabic or Thai if preferred.
- If you would like to view a short tutorial on the database's features, you will find a link on both the Home and Advanced search screens under the Database Help option located above the search box or just click here.
Features : Home page screen
The Home screen offers a range of ways to search for information. This is a great place to start for customers who are new to this database and/or those unfamiliar with advanced searching techniques. You can locate information on the Home screen via the following ways:
Basic Searching (Keyword)
Just type your term(s) in the Find field
and click Search. Your results will
be harvested from the various resource types listed below the Find field (eg evidence-based reports,
encyclopedias & reference books, etc).
Source-Type Searching
If you prefer to narrow your search
to a single source-type (eg news & magazines), click on your selection then type in your term(s) into
the Find field and hit Search. The articles listed will only
be drawn from the option you have elected.
Quick Find
This provides easy access to
information on common diseases, conditions, injuries and procedures. Click the
relevant letter for a results list.
Health Highlight
A great feature focussing on current medical information on a variety of popular health topics.
Health Highlight
A great feature focussing on current medical information on a variety of popular health topics.
Browse Popular Sources
Access to popular reference books and
encyclopedias are available by just clicking on the icon. Several of these
books contain contents pages, click on the link for more information.
Search by Topic
Search for articles on a topic of
interest by choosing an option in this section. The results list will
provide sub-topics which you can select, just enter your term(s) in the Find field and hit the Search button. Your results list will
be displayed.
Medical Dictionary
The Medical Dictionary option allows
you to search Merriam-Webster’s Medical Desk Dictionary. Click
on this and select a letter, the results list will display a list of
topics, scroll down until you locate the appropriate subject.
Features : Advanced Search screen
- The Advanced Search option enables you to refine your searching with the use of preferred document types and by applying limiters such as full-text, date range, publication type, etc.
- The use of expanders will broaden your search. By opting to apply related words to your search, results will include synonyms and plurals of your search terms. Additional ways to broaden your search include looking for your terms within the full text of the articles and by using the Boolean Operator ‘AND'.
Additional Features
- From the Advanced Search screen’s toolbar you are able to save your Search History, create Search Alerts and also browse all publications covered in CHC (alphabetically or by title, subject & description). To save the results of your searching history for future retrieval, you will need to create a CHC account which will enable you to access the articles you have saved to your personal folder.
- You are also able to print, email or save the results of your searches. When viewing an article, icons will appear for these options. Being able to save results to your folder will allow you to print, email or save them all at once.
- On both the Advanced Search and Home screens, just above the search box, you will find the link Database Help. This will give you detailed information on how to best use CHC by providing search tips (eg using truncation/wildcard symbols, Boolean operators, etc), setting up alerts to receive the latest issue of a particular journal, RSS feeds on topics of interest (but check the EBSCO-supported readers list), personalising your account, saving to folders, etc. Well worth a look.
Practise
I know we've covered a lot of info here today but once you actually use CHC, you'll see just how easy it is to navigate. As CHC provides a comprehensive range of medical and health information, it’s worth having a dabble with this database to see what it can offer our customers (and ourselves!). Try answering the following questions, just tackle them one a time when you have the opportunity:
I know we've covered a lot of info here today but once you actually use CHC, you'll see just how easy it is to navigate. As CHC provides a comprehensive range of medical and health information, it’s worth having a dabble with this database to see what it can offer our customers (and ourselves!). Try answering the following questions, just tackle them one a time when you have the opportunity:
1. I’d like
some general info on traditional Chinese herbal medicine as I’m thinking of
taking an alternative approach to a health issue that’s not responding well to standard
medical treatment.
2. My wife
is pregnant with our first child and I just wanted some videos about pregnancy
and the birth that we could watch together. I’ve checked your catalogue and all
your videos are out, do you have anything else you can suggest?
3. I’ve
been told I have irritable bowel syndrome, can I access some info online to learn
more about what this and how I can best take of myself? Pamphlets would be good
too if you have any.
4. Hi. I’m
doing a Year 12 assignment on men and depression. Where would I look for full-text info published within the last 5 years? (Staff member responds sagely.) Wow, CHC looks great, how
can I save all the articles I find so I can get to them later?
5. I
noticed that your Library has audio and e-books that I can download, but they're not what I'm really looking for. Do you have any
health encyclopedias I can access online?
Good luck!
Thanks,
Kris
w
Wh
·
84 year old Engadine patron loves Cronulla Library
After I farewelled an elderly gentleman slowly making his way out of Engadine branch today, he turned back to me to share his views on Cronulla library.
"That Cronulla Library is absolutely marvellous," he said. "Its got space, it's central, there are lots of people there AND it's got a cafe."
I told him I was very pleased to hear his views. His next comment was "Are you thinking of getting a machine here at Engadine?"
Can't win them all, I guess!
Sue S
"That Cronulla Library is absolutely marvellous," he said. "Its got space, it's central, there are lots of people there AND it's got a cafe."
I told him I was very pleased to hear his views. His next comment was "Are you thinking of getting a machine here at Engadine?"
Can't win them all, I guess!
Sue S
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