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This should be the first work of reference consulted by the genealogist, as it tells what family histories have already been published. These two massive volumes include titles and descriptive details of genealogies listed in the Family Name Index of the Local History and Genealogy Room in the Library of Congress up to 1972. The 20,000 entries, arranged by surname and covering every entry in the Family Name Index, include published as well as unpublished genealogies, with 25,000 cross-references directing attention to spelling variations and collateral family names. The entries refer not only to American and English works, but also to genealogies from Germany, France, Scandinavia, Spain, and many other countries.

See also the other volumes in this series:
Supplement 1972-1975
Supplement 1976-1986
A Complement to Genealogies in the Library of Congress
The Complete 5-Volume Set

"The most comprehensive bibliography of family histories. . . available. Essential for all genealogy collections."--Library Journal

"The bibliography covers genealogical works of all countries, and should be the first work of reference to be consulted by a genealogist commencing research."--Genealogical Quarterly

"Of inestimable value to the genealogical profession, as well as to the library field . . . a basic requirement."--New England Historical and Genealogical Register

"This is the greatest contribution to genealogical literature since Whitmore and Marshall."--Family History

"It is difficult to conceive of a reference library's not needing this publication for use both by its staff and patrons."--New York Genealogical and Biographical Record