Many New York State public libraries will be offering free genealogy programs in February.
The Hamlin Public Library (Monroe County) provides free Genealogy Help every Tuesday from 2-4 p.m. Need help with your family tree? Stop by or call ahead and make an appointment with Tracy. For more information, call 585-964-2320 or go to: https://hamlinlibraryny.org/
The Walworth Seeley Public Library (Wayne County) provides genealogy assistance every Monday from 2-4 p.m. For more information, go to: https://www.walworthlibrary.org/genealogy-local-history
The Prendergast Library (Chautauqua County) holds a Genealogy Lab Workshop every Friday from 2-4 p.m. https://www.prendergastlibrary.org/genealogy-and-memory-lab/
Week of February 2-8
The Glen Cove Public Library (Nassau County) will host a Genealogy Roundtable on Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 7 p.m. Share strategies and encourage one another on your research journey. All levels of researchers are welcome. To register, go to: https://glencovelibrary.libcal.com/event/13692935
Steele Memorial Library (Chemung County) will present “21st Century Italian Genealogy” on Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 6 p.m. Curious about Italian family history and heritage? With more and more records available online, this talk provides a strong overview for the beginning researcher, while including some lesser-known resources that will be of interest to even the most advanced researchers. To register, go to: https://www.chemunglibraries.org/event/21st-century-italian-genealogy-michael-cassara-4704
Longwood Public Library (Suffolk County) will host “Digging Up the Past” Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 6:30 p.m. Discover essential records, access library resources, and learn the importance of documenting family history. Explore effective research strategies, source evaluation, and online databases. For more information, go to: https://www.longwoodlibrary.org/event/genealogy-presentation-149796
South Huntington Public Library (Suffolk County) will offer an in person Genealogy Drop-In on Thursday, Feb. 6 from 10 a.m. to noon. Thinking about tracing your roots but don’t know where to start? Or maybe your search is under way and you’ve hit a dead end. Retired librarian PJ will be on hand to show you how you can access free genealogical resources, including Ancestry, through the library and to offer search tips and advice. No registration necessary.
The Chatham Public Library (Columbia County) will host Chatham Roots genealogy club on Thursday, Feb. 6 at 2 p.m. This free monthly genealogy club can assist in the search for your family. For beginners, experts and everyone in between. We will work on those elusive ancestors, break down your brick walls, share tips and tricks and just have fun. For information and the zoom link (if you are unable to attend in person), please contact Michelle at michelle@leclairdesign.com.
Steele Memorial Library (Chemung County) will host a Genealogy Club meeting on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 10 a.m. Join the Steele Memorial Library for an informal get together to talk about search tips and resources available to search your family history. Novices and experienced researchers are both welcome. Participants are encouraged to bring records and problems from their own research for discussion. To register, go to: https://www.chemunglibraries.org/event/copy-genealogy-club-mastering-art-deciphering-old-handwriting-carla-cegielski-4678
Week of February 9-15
Yonkers Public Library will offer “Create Your Family Tree” on Monday, Feb. 10 at 10 a.m. Get together to talk about your genealogical research. Learn how to access thousands of genealogical records using the Library’s online resources and databases such as HeritageQuest, Family Search and Ancestry! This is an English and Spanish bilingual program. To register, go to: https://www.ypl.org/event/create-your-family-tree-crea-tu-arbol-de-familia-61936
The Interlaken Public Library (Seneca County) will offer a virtual Genealogy Meetup on Thursday, Feb. 13 at 11 a.m. You must register to receive the link for the Zoom program. To register, go to: https://interlakenpubliclibrary.org/event/genealogy-meetup-3/
Week of February 16-22
Steele Memorial Library (Chemung County) will present “Introduction to DNA Tests” on Tuesday, Feb. 18 at 6 p.m. This program will introduce you to the basic principles of genetic inheritance, the types of tests currently being marketed by the big DNA companies, and will examine the pros, cons, and ethics of DNA testing. To register, go to: https://www.chemunglibraries.org/event/copy-introduction-dna-tests-family-history-virtual-4705
New York Public Library will present “Introduction to African American Genealogy” on Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 5 p.m. Centuries of local and federal laws related to the livelihood of black Americans have created a complex paper trail of genealogical resources. This class aims to provide introductory historical context and recommend basic research methods in the pursuit of African American family history. To register, go to: https://www.nypl.org/events/programs/2025/04/16/introduction-african-american-genealogy-research-0
The Rochester Genealogical Society will host a DNA Help Session at the Irondequoit Public Library on Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 10 a.m. Registration is required for DNA Sessions. DNA Help Sessions are designed to assist individuals and/or small groups answer DNA questions and help guide you in utilizing DNA in your research. Please register and complete the short registration form and if you have any questions, please email DNA@nyrgs.org.
The Port Jervis Free Library (Orange County) will present a Genealogy Workshop on Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 2 p.m. A discussion between those looking into their family tree, as well as hands on help using Ancestry.com as a resource, and tips and guidance from the president of the Minisink Historical Society. To register, call the library at 845-856-7313.
Oceanside Library (Nassau County) will host a Genealogy Club on Thursday, Feb. 20 from 7-8:30 p.m. This is an in person event. Informal catch up – share updates on research, ask questions, offer research suggestions. To register, go to: https://oceansidelibrary.libcal.com/event/13505918
The Monroe Free Library (Orange County) will a Walk-In Genealogy program on Friday, Feb. 21 from 10 – 11 a.m. Come to the Information desk and ask for Mike. He will spend some time with you to try and help answer your genealogy questions. Sign up not needed but it is recommended that you call first so he can be best prepared to help you.
Week of February 23-March 1
Yonkers Public Library will offer “Create Your Family Tree” on Monday, Feb. 24 at 10 a.m. Get together to talk about your genealogical research. Learn how to access thousands of genealogical records using the Library’s online resources and databases such as HeritageQuest, Family Search and Ancestry! This is an English and Spanish bilingual program. To register, go to: https://www.ypl.org/event/create-your-family-tree-crea-tu-arbol-de-familia-61937
The Onondaga County Public Libraries will present “21th Century Italian Genealogy” on Friday, Feb. 28 at 10 a.m. via Zoom. Curious about Italian family history and heritage? There has never been a better time to pursue Italian genealogical research! With more and more records available online, this talk provides a strong overview for the beginning researcher, while including some lesser-known resources that will be of interest to even the most advanced researchers. Register for this program at: https://onlib-central.libcal.com/event/13147409
