We haven't developed an Emily Post or Miss Manners for Genealogists yet - but here are some tips from someone who has spent over 30 years on the hobby (also former AZ OGS Newsletter Ed & Cssp. Sec'y): 1. Every research facility is different - and members of the staff vary from very helpful to downright rude & surly. They also vary in size, from rural to big-city professionals. Unless it's a site dedicated to genealogy or history - YOU ARE NOT THEIR PRIORITY ! 2. Courthouses, Newspapers & Public Libraries have other duties besides helping us. They have deadlines & pressures to get their primary work done (just like we do in our "real" jobs), and if you aren't specific on your needs, they probably can't take the time to do more than point you to the general area or genealogy stacks. They have also been "burned" by time-wasting researchers who want the staff to do all the work, and we truly are ROYAL PAINS. Some are under direct orders from their bosses to make genealogy their LAST priority. 3. If you haven't done some basic work before a visit (knowledge thru maps of the County, its history, etc.) you are asking for total frustration. There is NO WAY you can absorb enough background on your area of research in a few hours. 4. Photo copy EVERYTHING you think may apply to your research, then sort it out later. You may spend a few extra dollars, but it's better to throw away unwanted paper than to realize you should have made a copy of X document. This applies to LDS/FHS sites also ! Ancestry Files contain good data - and junk ! Print to paper, then sort later. 3. Historical vs Genealogical Societies: These people are VOLUNTEERS, usually members of the Society - and are really the ones totally immersed in the local data. However - the sites are not staffed 8 hrs a day, 7 days a week. Call or email ahead for hours, etc. 4. Depending on where you research, you may find either total co-operation between the two groups - or they feud like crazy, one holding a vital document, the other not telling you to try the other group. One Ohio County is notorious for having two very active groups - they WILL NOT share data or point you to the other's holdings. 5. Spend a little bit of money - The net & websites are wonderful, but if you are interested in a County, JOIN THE GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY for a year. You will get their Newsletter, notice of publications & make a few contacts who just MIGHT run over to the Courthouse & make those needed copies if you offer to pay them. You also may find a lost relative or new friend who will meet you & help you thru the on-site research maze! 6. BUY BOOKS on the area of reasearch - and read them ! It may be heretical in the age of electronic mail, but BOOKS can be your best friend ! 7. DON'T spend time telling everyone your genealogical life story... BORING ! Stick to the facts & they will be able to be more helpful. 8. Have CASH in small bills & lots of change...the facility is not a bank & most will not take checks- especially for small amounts. 8. Remember to thank everyone - and if someone really went out of their way to be helpful, take time to write a note of thanks after you get home, or go public with a "thank you" on their email site for everyone to read! Regards, Susan Bidwell Williams