Join San Francisco Public Library (SFPL) for a Genealogy and Family History Symposium, a two-day conference designed for individuals interested in uncovering their family history. This event will feature esteemed speakers from SFPL and local genealogy organizations, who will cover a diverse range of topics to enhance your research skills.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about valuable resources available at the library, both physical and electronic, that can aid in their genealogical research. The symposium will also provide insights on how to effectively search for specific ancestors, including those from Chinese, Irish, Jewish, Japanese, LGBTQIA and other backgrounds.

The symposium is perfect for both novice and experienced genealogists looking to deepen their understanding of family history research. Participants will leave with practical knowledge and tools to assist them in their journey of discovery.

“Unleash your inner history detective. Join us and learn how to unravel the threads that connect generations, and leave with the tools, tips and expert advice to tell your family’s story like never before,” said Richard Le, event organizer and North Beach Branch Library manager.

Don’t miss this chance to connect with fellow genealogy enthusiasts and gain access to expert advice and resources. Mark your calendars and prepare to embark on a rewarding exploration of your ancestry at the Genealogy and Family History Symposium.

All programs will take place in the Koret Auditorium at the Main Library, 100 Larkin St.

SCHEDULE OF SPEAKERS: Tuesday, July 22

10-11 AM | San Francisco Public Library's Genealogy Databases

Daniel Matsumoto, eResources Librarian, SFPL

Discover the secrets hidden within the library’s genealogical databases—Ancestry, MyHeritage, My China Roots and HeritageHub. Join us for an illuminating session that demystifies these powerful tools for researching your roots.

11 AM-12 PM | Be a Genealogy Detective: Artifacts & Recovered Documents for Chinese Genealogy

Jeanie Low, Chinese American Historian and Genealogist

Explore historical maps, gravestone inscriptions, WWI draft registrations, naturalization records and key events like the Transcontinental Railroad and Chinese Exclusion Act. Unravel the mystery of “paper names” and reconstruct authentic family histories. 

12-1 PM | LUNCH BREAK

1-2 PM | Historic Newspapers for Genealogy Research

Kelci Baughman McDowell, Librarian, Magazines & Newspapers Center, SFPL

Tips, tricks and guidance for finding obituaries and locating family information in historic newspapers by using SFPL resources and open access newspaper databases. 

2-3 PM | Discovering Your Irish Ancestors: Steps, Strategies and Resources

Maureen Hanlon, California Genealogical Society volunteer and former Board officer

Discover proven methods for researching Irish ancestry using U.S. records. Learn to build timelines for life events, map vital Irish archives and overcome research barriers with sound strategies.

3-4 PM | Angel Island's Immigrants from 80 Countries and Their Documents

Grant Din, Asian and Pacific Islander Americans in Historic Preservation & California Genealogical Society

Angel Island in San Francisco Bay housed a U.S. immigration station between 1910 and 1940, enforcing the Chinese Exclusion Acts but also processing immigrants from 80 countries. Learn about their stories and documents you can find today.

4-5 PM | Government Resources for Genealogists

Vaile Fujikawa, Program Manager, Government Information Center, SFPL

Discover the wealth of genealogical information available through government resources. This presentation will guide you through effective strategies for utilizing sources such as Archives.gov for federal records and USCIS.gov for crucial immigration documents. We will also delve into the unique treasures housed within the Library's Government Information Center (GIC).

SCHEDULE OF SPEAKERS: Wednesday, July 23

10-11 AM | Introduction to the Sutro Library

Steenalisa Tilcock, Reference Librarian, Sutro Library

Discover the largest genealogy collection in the Western U.S. at the Sutro Library. Explore extensive records, rare books and archival materials. Learn about the resources, services and most sought-after materials.

11 AM-12 PM | Introduction to Japanese American Genealogy

Linda Okazaki, Nikkei Genealogical Society and Past President of California Genealogical Society

Discover essential Japanese American records—vital, census, immigration and even incarceration. Learn how to find the traditional and ethnic-specific records that can help you uncover and document your family’s history. 

12-1 PM | LUNCH BREAK

1-2 PM | Jewish Genealogy: Fundamental Strategies

Joanna Shear, Member of Santa Cruz Jewish Genealogy Society and California Genealogical Society

Tracing Jewish ancestry can present unique challenges, from name changes to lost records and uncertain countries of origin. This presentation will guide you through fundamental genealogical strategies to navigate these obstacles effectively. The focus is on 19th and 20th century immigrants to the U.S.

2-3 PM | LGBTQ+ Genealogy

Stewart Traiman, Genealogist, Former BoD. of CGS

Through photographs, obituaries, census data and world LGBTQ archives, identify ancestors who may have been Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender or Queer and learn how historical context and documentation come together to honor and preserve the narratives of LGBTQ ancestors.

3-4 PM | Storytelling Using the San Francisco History Center Archives

Christina Moretta, Photo Curator & Acting SF History Center Manager, SFPL

Delve into a wealth of unique archival collections (e.g., manuscripts, ephemera, maps and photographs) and learn how to uncover narratives of your San Francisco ancestors. 

4-5 PM | Preserving Family Collections

Elise Hochhalter, Conservation Tech, Preservation Unit, SFPL

Get quick tips and advice on how to care for physical family treasured collections, including letters, official documents, photographs and scrapbooks, ensuring that these precious artifacts endure for generations to come.