Local Partner Resources

 Monroe County Library System (MCLS):

The Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County boasts one of the premier collections of local historical and genealogical materials in western New York, while smaller municipal member libraries such as the Ogden Farmers' Library in Spencerport, the Henrietta Public Library, and the Penfield Public Library have built collections of materials relevant to their particular towns. MCLS libraries have developed collections and finding aids that try to make sense of the past in an effort to better serve local residents as well as visitors who come seeking their roots.

Resources including the New York State Vital Records Index, Life Records, City and Suburban Directories, high school and college yearbooks, microfilmed newspapers dating back to 1818, and subscriptions to e-databases are held by the Central Library's Local History and Genealogy Division, where Rochester Genealogical Society members volunteer as docents some evenings and Saturdays to provide extra assistance to researchers.

 To learn more, visit the Genealogy Resources section of the MCLS website: http://www3.libraryweb.org.



Local Interview: Watch On-Demand: Learn about local resources in this WXXI Interview about using the rich resources of Monroe County Library System and Rochester Genealogical Society to "find your own roots."

Rochester Genealogical Society (RGS):

The Rochester Genealogical Society began in 1938 when several people at a meeting of the Rochester Historical Society formed an informal group to preserve their family heritage. The Rochester Genealogical Society became an independent organization in 1977.

The organization sponsors regular educational activities and encourages member-to-member support as well as community awareness of genealogy and family history. Its membership is comprised of people from all walks of life, who freely offer help or guidance to other members and the community whenever asked. Some members also volunteer at the Local History & Genealogy Division of Central Library and local Family History Centers to assist researchers or serve as speakers on particular topics.

Whether you are a well-seasoned genealogist or family historian, or are just starting out, we are confident that you will find your membership in the Rochester Genealogical Society beneficial.

RGS meets on the 3^rd Thursday of each month, September through June, presenting programs on a variety of genealogical and historic topics.  It also has a Computer Interest Group that meets the 2^nd Thursday of each month for those interested in using a computer with their family research.  Membership also includes a quarterly newsletter containing information on Western NY resources, events, and member’s projects.

To learn more, visit: http://nyrgs.org