The National Institute for Genealogical Studies has a new course, Creating Genealogy Programs for Adults & the Younger Generation. This excellent course was written by Jennifer Holik who has authored a number of books about developing genealogy programs for children and societies/libraries. The first course start date is Monday, March 4, 2013 and will be offered every three months. It is six modules in length.

We would appreciate any promotion you can provide for this course through emails, blogs, websites, Virtual Meetings, and any other social media that you may utilize. 

The following is a description of the course:

Engaging adults in genealogy has typically been a task for genealogical societies rather than libraries. Today however, many libraries are creating adult genealogy groups and programs. Attendance for these programs is easier to obtain than perhaps a youth program in genealogy. But, these libraries are also looking for ways to engage the youth in genealogy. The problem lies in how to capture their interest and create a program that will convey the basics of research in a way that is both meaningful and engaging.

This course provides an example of creating an adult genealogy program first, as a way to lay the foundation for a youth program. It follows with examples of youth programs for those in grades one through twelve. The examples are laid out into one hour, one and a half-hour, half-day, and full-day workshops and cover the basics of research while also incorporating social and local history. The final result is a rich and useful youth genealogy program. Requirements and suggestions on assisting youth who are earning Scout-type badges follows and finally, you will take the youth workshop beyond the classroom. You will learn ways to continue your own education, create and provide additional resources for your library, and connect with others.

NOTE: Although this course written with the librarian in mind, it is also suitable for the society organizer, archivist, professional genealogist, or teacher.

Students can obtain the course reading material through their Student Briefcase and can also purchase the printed course materials from the GenealogyStore.com. Please note that the student must be registered in the course in order to be able to order the printed materials. The direct link to the course materials in the store is http://www.genealogicalstudies.com/eng/gstore-products.asp?productID=16338&country=.