2026 Intro to Genealogy - 1st Saturday Free! Overview and Focused Topics

The library is open on Thursdays through Saturdays (10-2).SeeDirections and Parkingfor info on Saturday visits, which have different procedures than weekdays. See ourEvents and Educationfor online and in-person sessions.________________________________________Connecting people to their diverse family heritageWhether you have Gold Rush ancestors or have no family connection to California, you will find extensive support for your genealogy research at the California Genealogical Society (CGS) in Oakland. The society offers research services, online indexes and databases, and a research library housing over 38,000 reference materials from California, the United States, and around the world. CGS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. The library is conveniently located in Uptown Oakland, one block north of the Paramount Theatre, at 2201 Broadway, Suite LL2. We are three blocks from the 19th Street BART Station.Phone: (510) 663-1358Non-Discrimination StatementThe goal of the California Genealogical Society is to connect people to their family heritage and to promote a spirit of diversity and inclusivity for our members and patrons. The California Genealogical Society does not tolerate discrimination in any form.Courtesy RequestIn order to maintain a welcoming and healthy environment, please refrain from using scented products at CGS events or in the library.Photography NoticeCalifornia Genealogical Society (CGS) may take photographs, audio recordings, and video footage in our library, classrooms or events for historical records or publicity purposes.  If you do not want to be photographed or filmed, it is the individual’s responsibility to 'opt out' by notifying the event leader or photographer at the event.

California Genealogical Society

Our four-part series is ideal for getting started with genealogy or for advanced researchers to revisit principles of good research

Online and in Person at CGS Library

<h2>Introduction to Genealogy for 2026</h2><h3>IN PERSON and ONLINE</h3> <h4>** NOW IN OUR NEW BERKELEY LIBRARY **</h4><h3>Monthly on First Saturdays, 10 am - 12 pm PST or PDT</h3>

<h4>Now at our new Berkeley location!</h4><h4>This is presented at the CGS Library and online via Zoom</h4>Not sure how to get started with your family research? Interested in refreshing your skills? Join us for a FREE Introduction to Genealogy class the FIRST SATURDAY of every month from 10 am - 12 pmThis is a four-session "Intro to Genealogy" class series. The first class offers an overview of genealogy research. Each of the next three sessions offers a more in-depth focus on the following topics: Census, Vital Records, and Organization. The classes may be taken in any order, and participation in one class is not required to attend others in the series. See below for dates and topics:<ul><li>Jan 3, May 2, Sep 5 Genealogy Basics Overview</li><li>Feb 7, Jun 6, Oct 3 Using the Census</li><li>Mar 7, Jun 27*, Nov 7 Vital Records (Birth, Marriage, and Death)</li><li>Apr 4, Aug 1, Dec 5 Organizing Your Family History Work</li></ul>* Rescheduled due to July 4th holidayNote: Separate registration required for each session.

<h3>REGISTRATION INFORMATION:</h3> Pre-registration is required. Class size is limited so register early to confirm your spot.CGS members and Non-members may attend the live event free of charge.You can purchase a $45 one-year CGS Basic membership when you check out. To sign up for other membership options go to our web page: <a href="https://www.californiaancestors.org/join-cgs-application/" title="https://www.californiaancestors.org/join-cgs-application/" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">CGS Membership application</a>PAYMENT OPTIONS:Credit card payments will be processed by 91����. *Event fee is non-refundable.

For those attending online: The event will take place via Zoom on first Saturdays at 10 am. If you join, please sign in early to make sure you are able to see the program. We will send you instructions the night before, and a reminder shortly before the event, which will give you access. Our remote events now have live closed captioning. When registering, use an email address you will be checking. Please note all times are Pacific Time.For those attending in person: We have RELOCATED to 1841 Berkeley Way Berkeley behind the Trader Joes on University Ave. We are a 10 minute walk from the Downtown Berkeley BART Station. There is limited parking at our building and street parking west of the Berkeley Way bollards. Further instructions will be included with your registration confirmation. If you have trouble entering, call the library at (510) 663-1358.You do not have to have a Zoom account to attend a Zoom meeting. You will be prompted to download the software, once you have clicked on the link that you have been provided. You may also wish to create an account, but that is not required to participate in a Zoom meeting.This event is presented live. Some events may be recorded for CGS use only.See you in person or online!

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2026 Intro to Genealogy - 1st Saturday Free! Overview and Focused Topics

Introduction to Genealogy for 2026

IN PERSON and ONLINE

NOW IN OUR NEW BERKELEY LIBRARY

Monthly on First Saturdays, 10 am - 12 pm PST or PDT

Good to know

Location

Online and in Person at CGS Library

How do you want to get there?

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91����

2026 Intro to Genealogy - 1st Saturday Free! Overview and Focused Topics

Introduction to Genealogy for 2026

IN PERSON and ONLINE

** NOW IN OUR NEW BERKELEY LIBRARY **

Monthly on First Saturdays, 10 am - 12 pm PST or PDT

Good to know

Location

Online and in Person at CGS Library

How do you want to get there?

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Discover more events from California Genealogical Society, from Community to other experiences you might love.

RootsMagic Special Interest Group

Adventures in Filipino American Genealogy

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Field Trip To Sutro Library

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NOW IN OUR NEW BERKELEY LIBRARY