"Genealogy 101"
  Designed for the person just starting to research his family, and the
genealogist or researcher of local/New York State history, this session
offers an overview of the collections and many resources - paper and
electronic - available at the New York State Library. Includes some
insider's research tips!
Wednesday, Oct 15th     12:15-1:15pm

"Freedom of the Screen: the Legal Challenges to State Film Censorship,
1921-1981."
In 1921 the NYS Legislature created the Motion Picture Commission to
review every motion picture proposed for public exhibition in New York
State. In 1926 its duties were transferred to the Motion Picture
Division of the State Education Dept. which reviewed films for material
"..obscene, indecent, immoral, inhuman, sacrilegious, or of such
character that it's exhibition would tend to corrupt morals or to incite
crime.."
During the 1950's and early 1960's,the authority of the Division, and
censorship boards in other states was repeatedly challenged in the
courts. Laura Wittern-Keller, Ph.D. history candidate at the University
at Albany, and professor at Castleton State College, will speak on
researching state film censorship records in NY, as well as MD, VA, PA,
and OH.
Thursday, Oct 16th      1:00-2:00pm

"Menagerie on the Manor: The Livingstons and Their Companion Animals"
         Caring for companion animals was a way of life for the
Livingston family of Clermont.  A wealth of evidence (decorative arts
objects, photographs and personal ephemera) related to the companion
animals on the estate indicate Livingston pet keeping traditions
followed the evolution of pet keeping in America.  Through documents,
objects and family stories, this slide presentation presented by Heidi
Hill, curator of Education at Clermont State Historic Site, will explore
the development of pet keeping in America, and the Livingston family's
devotion to their pets.
Thursday,Oct 23rd          12:15-1:15pm

All classes are FREE. TO REGISTER online go to
http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/library/trng_reg.htm, or e-mail
[log in to unmask] or call Mary Woodward at 518-474-2274.
Classes will be held in the Librarians Room in the State Library, which
is on the 7th floor of the Cultural Education Center, Madison Avenue,
Albany unless otherwise indicated. The New York State Library/Reference
Services
Cultural Education Center, Albany, NY 12230 (518-474-5355);
http://www.nysl.nysed.gov