Anne Wachs is a passionate genealogist and MLS librarian at Washington-Centerville Public Library (WCPL). With decades of research experience under her belt, Anne has helped countless individuals trace their ancestry, uncover family mysteries and forge deeper connections with their roots.
“Genealogy is like a treasure hunt,” Anne says. “I like solving mysteries. You never know what you’re going to find, and sometimes it’s the surprises that are the most meaningful.”
A Journey Rooted in Curiosity
This sense of curiosity led Anne to pursue a Master of Library Science (MLS), where she combined her love of research with a passion for uncovering stories hidden in historical records.
As a librarian at WCPL, Anne found the perfect platform to share her passion and expertise. She leads regular workshops, provides one-on-one research assistance and speaks at conferences throughout the county, helping people of all ages begin or deepen their genealogical journeys.
Why Explore Your Family History?
Genealogy isn’t just about finding names and dates on paper—it’s about discovering the stories that make us who we are. Genealogy can also strengthen our family bonds by connecting generations through shared stories, preserving cultural and ethnic heritage, providing medical insights through understanding hereditary conditions, or even offering context for historical events through personal narratives.
“People want to know where they came from. Understanding your family history can provide a stronger sense of identity and belonging,” Anne explains. “It helps people understand the struggles, resilience and accomplishments of those who came before them.”
What if There Aren’t Records?
For many Americans, particularly Black Americans whose ancestors were enslaved, there aren’t always written lineages. However, some researchers have created tools to connect the dots that are available. Anne suggests using DNA services such as 23andMe or Ancestry.com and then connecting with other people who have done the same. There are also Freedman’s Bank records and databases, such as African American Heritage, which are available to anyone living in Ohio.
When looking for relatives several generations removed, Anne also suggests looking through church or religious records for ancestors from other countries, as the church often had far more thorough record-keeping, especially in European nations occupied by several different countries throughout history.
Getting Started: Anne’s Genealogy Research Tips
1. Start with What You Know
Begin by gathering information from home—birth certificates, family bibles, old photos and stories passed down through generations. “Talk to your relatives while you can,” Anne advises. “Even small details can become valuable leads.”
2. Stay Organized
Use charts or digital tools to map out your family tree. Keep detailed notes on your sources so you can revisit or verify them later.
3. Use Library Resources
Many public libraries, including Washington-Centerville, offer access to powerful genealogy tools like Ancestry Library Edition, HeritageQuest and local newspaper archives.
4. Verify, Don’t Assume
“Family stories can sometimes become folklore,” Anne says. “Always cross-reference with official records—like census data, immigration forms and military records—to confirm accuracy.”
5. Be Patient and Persistent
Genealogical research can be slow and occasionally frustrating, especially when dealing with name changes, language barriers or missing records. “It’s important to celebrate small victories,” Anne encourages. “Each discovery is a step closer to understanding your family's story.”
A Community Resource for Discovery
Washington-Centerville Public Library is a hub for local exploration, and its genealogy resources are second to none. Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your fifth-generation search, the library provides tools, support and expert guidance.
In a fast-paced world focused on progress, genealogy reminds us that looking back can be just as rewarding. Whether you uncover a pioneering ancestor, a forgotten love story or a historical figure you never knew you were related to, each find adds a new branch to the tree of understanding.“Everyone has a story,” Anne says.
For more information on services and to find out about upcoming genealogy workshops with Anne, visit WClibrary.info.
Genealogy Resources at WCPL
FamilySearch.org
Run by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this tool is near exhaustive. As an affiliate library, WCPL has access to an additional 400 million images.
Fold3
A military resource, this database has documents from American wars, as well as naturalization records.
HeritageQuest Online
Dive into federal census records, family histories and city directories from the U.S.
My Heritage Library Edition
A free version of a database that is also available for purchase.
African American Heritage
The database specifically focused on African American and Black history in the United States.
Local History Archives
Search digitized newspapers, obituaries and other primary sources from the Centerville and Washington Township area.
Genealogy Workshops
Attend classes that cover everything from getting started to advanced research strategies at WCPL.