Birmingham Public Library Among The Best
According To Family Tree Magazine

BIRMINGHAM, AL -- The Birmingham Public Library has been honored by Family Tree Magazine as one of the nation’s ten best public libraries for genealogy in the October 2002 issue. In the cover feature article entitled, “Leaders of the Stacks”, the Birmingham Public Library was ranked second among all libraries offering family history research materials.

“We are proud to be recognized for our vast genealogical resources. Recognition such as this, can only be attained through the outstanding support of our patrons and the generous donations of the friends of the library,” states Barbara C. Sirmans, Director of the Birmingham Public Library.

Libraries were ranked according to collection size, geographic scope, census records, special collections and accessibility. The Birmingham Public Library was recognized for its major holdings for the southern United States, as well as its special collections in African and Native American genealogical information. The selection of the top ten public libraries was made by Family Tree Magazine contributing editor Rick Crume, creator of the Genealogical Library Master Catalog CD-ROM, in consultation with the magazine’s staff and contributing professional genealogists.

“Genealogy is America’s fastest-growing hobby,” says David A. Fryxell, editor-in-chief of Family Tree Magazine, “and these libraries are providing exceptional resources for both beginners and experienced researchers. The records they maintain and make available, hold essential pieces of the puzzle of our past–answers to questions about our ancestors who made America what it is today.”

In honor of Family History Month in October, this issue celebrates libraries and archives, and will be available on national newsstands on Tuesday, August 27, 2002.

The complete list of the top ten public libraries for genealogy is:
1. Allen County Public Library, Fort Wayne, IN
2. Birmingham Public Library, Birmingham, AL
3. Clayton Library, Houston, TX
4. Dallas Public Library, Dallas, TX
5. Denver Public Library, Denver, CO
6. Detroit Public Library, Detroit, MI
7. Los Angeles Public Library, Los Angeles, CA
8. Mid-Continent Public Library, Independence, MO
9. The New York Public Library, New York, NY
10. Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, Cincinnati, OH

Family Tree Magazine is America’s largest-circulation, genealogy periodical. Published bimonthly, it helps more than 170,000 readers discover, preserve and celebrate their family history. For more information about the list and Family Tree Magazine, contact David A. Fryxell at 513.531.2690, ext. 1273 or e-mail him at ftmedit@fwpubs.com.

The Birmingham Public Library and its 20 branch locations provide the public with the most current collections, as well as the most comprehensive research tools in the state. The Birmingham Public Library strives to inform visitors by hosting special programs year round, such as Brown Bag Lunch series and Alabama Bound, in addition to children’s programs from toddlers to teenagers. These programs allow the public to meet and greet guest lecturers, musicians, authors and publishers. For more information regarding the Birmingham Public Library and a list of exciting, upcoming events, please visit www.bplonline.org or call 205.226.3600.