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Filing systems for genealogy - Be organized from the start to keep the papers from overtaking your office, home or garage.
Home » Genealogy » Organizing and Documenting Your Family History Information » Filing systems for genealogy - Be organized from the start to keep the papers from overtaking your office, home or garage.Posted by Your Guide on July 6, 2006 9:51 PM
Making use of the tools that are available is a big step toward organized genealogy research. Deciding which file system you will use is often done by trial and error. However, this guide can give you head start toward deciding which system will be most effective for you.
File boxes
File boxes are light weight and portable. The drawback is that they may not be large enough to carry all the data you would like to have with you as you look.
Loose Leaf Notebooks
Loose leaf notebooks are great for home use, but suffer from a severe space limitation and the need to punch holes in documents in order to keep them in place. Page protectors can eliminate the need to punch holes, but can be heavy and expensive.
File Cabinet and File drawers
A file cabinet can be an ideal storage place for your genealogy research. Not only are fire safe cabinets available, they can also be locked for added security. The down side is that there is no option for portability. Individual files can be removed and returned, but loose papers can become lost while out of the cabinet.
Computer Software Program on Laptop or Desktop
A computerized genealogy program is an excellent way to store an immense amount of data in a small space. Of course there is no good way to store actual documents on a computer program, but they can be scanned and stored electronically. Some research facilities prohibit the use of laptops inside the research room, so check with them before you carry your laptop with you.
PDA format Genealogy Program
A few genealogy programs are available for use on your PDA. However, storage space is limited by the capacity of your PDA. If additional storage cards are available, these can help expand your PDA's capacity and keep your genealogy records separate from your other documents. Not only are PDA's even more portable than laptop computers, but they are not often prohibited in research facilities.
Safe Deposit Box or Fire proof safe
For those records that are irreplaceable, a safe deposit box or fire proof safe is a must. Old pictures, land deeds, and original documents should be stored in a climate controlled, acid free, and fire safe space.
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