The Genealogy Club met for the first time at Shepherdstown Public Library on July 10. Photo by Ainsley Hall

SHEPHERDSTOWN — The Shepherdstown Public Library added a new program called the Genealogy Club, where people throughout the community can come and build their family tree.

The first meeting took place on July 10, giving guests the chance to learn more about the tools available to them.

For many years, Addison Reese, adult services librarian, has had an interest in genealogies. When her grandmother passed away, she left a handwritten family tree that inspired Reese to organize it and share the information with the rest of her family.

Not only has she made her own tree, but about seven years ago, she started taking care of the Kearneysville Methodist Cemetery, recording grave sites, keeping track of family lines and preserving history.

Since making her own tree, she has helped other people who visit the library as they create their own. She decided to take up this hobby and give people time and space to work together on these projects.

“The goal is to help people with whatever road blocks they face,” Reese said. “I want to give them new ways to search and create an environment where people can help each other. It’s also a chance to connect with people over a shared hobby. People can get nerdy with this stuff. It’s fun to share what we’ve found.”

The first meeting focused on talking about some of the different tools people can use, such as online programs like Ancestry and Family Search and newspapers.

People can use technology and AI programs that read hand-written documents to find the people they are looking for. During the meeting, Reese even helped one member start her tree by finding documents about her great-grandmother.

The club includes people who have worked on their family tree for several years and some who are just getting started. Reese said everyone interested is welcome.

For those just getting started and wondering where to start, Reese said it depends on the person.

“I would say to start with what you know,” she said. “It can be intimidating, especially if you aren’t used to some of the programs. But once you get into it, it’s really user friendly. I hope people become more comfortable using these platforms and the resources the library has to offer.”

The club’s next meeting will be at 11 a.m. on Aug. 14. Reese plans on getting together once a month on the second Thursday to continue discussions.

For more information about the library, visit https://www.sheplibrary.org/.