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Carlsbad genealogy unit describes large collection and free research services
Summary
Senior librarian Christie Bell told trustees the Georgina Cole Library houses over 50,000 genealogy items and that staff provided more than 72,000 minutes of research assistance in the past year, offering free 'Ask a Genealogist' help, classes and digitization resources.
Senior librarian Christie Bell presented the genealogy and Carlsbad history division’s services, collections and public programs to the board on Aug. 28.
Bell said the Georgina Cole Library holds one of Southern California’s larger genealogy collections, with more than 50,000 items in mixed formats supplemented by subscription databases (including a Find My Past subscription funded by the North San Diego County Genealogical Society). The division provides a computer lab and scanners to help patrons digitize records and conducts free monthly classes and periodic beginners’ sessions; many programs are offered both in person and via Zoom.
Bell reported that in the past year the division recorded over 1,800 brief directional queries, more than 2,000 reference interactions longer than 15 minutes, and roughly 72,000 minutes of active research provided by staff. When trustees asked how those minutes are tracked, Bell said staff log activity in 15-minute increments in an internal research log and confirmed the 72,000 minutes are staff hours, not volunteer time.
Bell also described partnerships with the North San Diego County Genealogical Society (an MOU formalized in 2017), grant activity to digitize early newspapers through California Revealed, outreach at farmers markets and schools, and plans to revive an oral-history program and work with local civic groups on future displays.
