http://www.lsj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060325/NEWS01/603250334/1001/o pinion Published March 25, 2006 [ From the Lansing State Journal ] Finding family: State genealogists gain high-tech tools By Hugh Leach Lansing State Journal ....snip... Genealogy, by some accounts, has become the second most popular hobby in the United States. The Internet has made investigating the past easier than ever. "In lots of areas, the Internet is a very appropriate way of doing research," said Randy Riley, special collections manager at the Library of Michigan. "Things you used to have to go to the Library of Congress to get, you can now access through the Internet." The Library of Michigan will offer a free seminar devoted to Internet research and online genealogical resources from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. April 1. Initially, Riley said, many genealogists were afraid of using computer technology to aid in their quest. But that has changed. "Now genealogists are probably the most computer-savvy people in the library," he said. While the Internet provides valuable clues and shortcuts to finding information, often more work is needed. "You still need to prove things," said Ruth Lewis, a professional genealogist who also volunteers at the library. "But the Internet has been very useful to me." Such important resources as census data, military service records and immigration records are just a few mouse clicks away. Both Lewis and Betty Klaviter, another professional genealogist, praised the staff at the Library of Michigan for its knowledge and willingness to help genealogists, whether they are just beginning the hobby or are experienced. Klaviter, who has done genealogical research in England, Ireland and New York City among other places, also spoke highly of the library itself. "There's nothing like coming home," she said. "The library is user-friendly, it's in a gorgeous setting, and the research materials are wonderful." Although many genealogists are retired people, Riley said he has noticed younger people becoming interested. Sometimes, grandparents come to the genealogy section with their grandchildren. "I believe that genealogists should publish their findings," he said. "With computers it's possible to self-publish. Too many times the material doesn't get published, and a life's work gets tossed out when the genealogist dies." Contact Hugh Leach at 377-1119 or hleach@lsj.com.