Another superb library in the Midwest is the Burton Historical Collection at
the Main Branch of the Detroit Public Library.  It has been identified as
one of the top 5 genealogy collections in the country.

 Unfortunately, they have some of the surliest staff and poorest research
conditions which makes using the facility a royal pain.  The most recent
hassle - they have recently added a $100 annual fee (or $10 daily fee) to
use the collection.  That means if you wish to walk into the research room
to use their books in open shelves, their microfilm collection, or to
request materials from closed stacks (miles of shelving), you now must pay
an $100 (or $10/day), even if you will only be there for 1 hour.

But iIf you have family from early Detroit or Michigan (Detroit was settled
in 1701 by the French), or who were in the area during the British
settlement between the French and Indian War and 1796, or during the British
invasions during the War of 1812 - the Burton Collection is superb.

 Their Canadian collection of that era is outstanding, as well.

 The question is whether you're willing to pay to use the facility.

 Mary Beth Dalton
Williamsburg, VA
(a former Michiganian)



 ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Paul Drake" <[log in to unmask]>
> To: <[log in to unmask]>
> Sent: Saturday, July 31, 2004 11:19 AM
> Subject: Allen Co. Public Library (ACPL)
>
>
> I have often been asked about quality libraries in the middle of the
> country.  I very much recommend the Allen County Public Library at Ft.
> Wayne, Indiana.  It is HUGE, and the genealogical collection is said to be
> second only to Mormon Library at Salt Lake City, and even bigger than the
> Library of the City of New York.  It is easy to reach from anywhere via
> Interstates, and the folks there are dedicated to helping you and as
> friendly as they are helpful.  Better take a look if you live north of St.
> Louis, east of KA, and west of Pittsburg; it's collection is
> MASSIVE!!!!!!!!!!  Paul
> http://www.acpl.lib.in.us/genealogy/index.html
>
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