Genealogy Resources
The following is a curated list of eResources the District subscribes to and websites we use for information. When accessing eResources we subscribe to from outside of our Branches, you will be prompted to enter your library card number to obtain access.
The White Oak Library District is pleased to offer the special Library edition of Ancestry.com, the gold standard of genealogy databases. However, there is no "one stop shopping" for people seeking their family history. Below is a list of resources compiled by the Library that you may find helpful in your genealogy work. Some of them require you sign in with a Library card number, a good card to have no matter what you are researching! Good luck on your quest to discover your heritage.
African American Genealogy Records is useful to researchers who have African American ancestry. This site compiles records that pertain to African Americans and date back to the nineteenth century.
Discover your family’s history using this collection containing more than 4,000 databases and 1.5 billion names cover the U.S. and U.K. IN-LIBRARY USE ONLY
BillionGraves.com is a great website to search gravesites. This site uses searchable GPS cemetery database, which continues to grow.
Chicago Tribune Archives contain their most extensive repository of news, dating back to 1849. Stories, photos, comics, obituaries, classified and display advertising—all as they were presented in print.
Cyndislist.com has a large list of sites that can assist with your genealogical research. The sources are broken down into categories (ie. countries, vital records, maps, waterways, religion and churches, etc.) so you can narrow your search.
FamilySearch.org requires users to create an account, but it is free. They work tirelessly to preserve and share the largest collection of genealogical and historical records in the world.
FindaGrave.com allows researchers to search over 150 million grave records. Research information can also be added.
Historical documents and personal histories from the National Archives and other institutions that provides access to U.S. military records including stories, photos, and personal document of the men and women who served. - Library Card Needed.
HeritageQuest Online provides American genealogical resources including the United States Federal Census, local history books, Revolutionary War Era Pension and Bounty-Land Warrant Application files, and Freedman's Bank records. - Library Card Needed.
Illinois State Archives has many sources, including death and marriage indexes, court files, emancipation records, and veteran indexes, you can use to research your ancestors if they were born or lived in Illinois.
MyHeritage.com allows you to conduct a wide search, providing you with census records, birth and death records, marriage records, and provides primary sources from countries outside the U.S. - Library Card Needed.
This site is limited with the amount of primary sources available, but you can contact the National Archives to schedule a research appointment or to request primary sources you need for your genealogy research. NARA has an office in Chicago. The address is 7358 South Pulaski Rd. Phone number is (773) 948-9000.
Native American Heritage is an excellent source to help people research their Native American heritage. It provides great sources, including oral histories, tribal enrollment records, and government records.
Public Records Electronic Database compiles public information from Will, Cook and surrounding counties and includes new homeowners and mortgages, new business licenses and incorporations, tax liens, tax sales for property, and foreclosures and bankruptcies. - Library Card Needed.
US Gen Web Project only contains sources from the United States. You can research records and various websites listed by state. Some states might be limited with the amount of sources available.
