I am considered a "professional librarian." I am considered such not because I like to read, not because of my experience, not because I get paid, etc., but because I followed a prescribed educational path and earned a particular degree. Then, in order to practice my profession in a public arena, I was required by my state to apply for a certain certificate, which also hinged on my educational attainments. This system has seemed to work fairly well for librarianship, and since I come from this mindset, I don't have an issue with certain educational goals, degrees, or certificates being required for one to be considered a "professional genealogist" (or, professional family historian.) As a matter of fact, I like the idea, and think it is needed. Those who practice librarianship as a career, but are not considered "professionals" - even though they may have vast experience and knowledge, and may perform better than professionals (the fairness of that, and elitism, is another debate) - are known as paraprofessionals. So instead of "hobbyist," how about "paraprofessional genealogist?" (Which is along the same vein as "paralegal," etc.) Traci Thompson Local History/Genealogy Librarian Braswell Memorial Library 727 N Grace St Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252-442-1951 ext 247(voice) Opinions expressed are my own. * Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail.