BUILDING YOUR FAMILY TREE

Whether you are just beginning to explore your family history, or can’t quite solve a family mystery, the Local History and Genealogy Department at the Toledo Lucas County Public Library is here to help with your family tree:

Visit us anytime during open Main Library hours.

Call 419.259.5233.

Fill out the form at toledolibrary.org/localhistory to schedule a one-to-one research assistance session.

The steps below will guide you in your journey to more fully understand your family history and genealogy.

STEP 1 – INTERVIEWS

STEP 2 – ANCESTRAL CHART

STEP 3 – DOCUMENTATION

STEP 4 – DEEP DIVE

STEP 5 – RECORDS IN YOUR HOME

Family Tree Workbook. Download our workbook and begin your family history search at home.

“It’s been so much fun to reach out to far-flung relatives to build our family tree. I’ve connected with distant cousins and have bonded over sharing stories and artifacts.” 

— Lilian K., Whitehouse

“I actually got started when my daughter had a basic family tree project. I was surprised by how few of her questions I could answer. I thought I should really know my own history more, so I started my own family tree project. It’s very satisfying to now have the answers I didn’t have before.” 

— Stuart N., Maumee

“My family has deep Hungarian roots, and I want to make sure my own children and grandchildren realize how we fit into Toledo’s story. Documenting everything in a family tree will keep our family story alive for future generations.” 

— Anna K., East Toledo

ARTICLES FROM OFF THE SHELF WINTER 2024