Using PERSI

by Lorine McGinnis Schulze

PERSI (PERiodical Source Index) is a wonderful tool. Here is how to use it effectively:

First, find what articles are published on the surname you are seeking. Many large libraries have the index, but if yours doesn't, you can purchase the CD ROM version, or consult the online PERSI Index at at Ancestry.com at Periodical Source Index (PERSI)

I used Ancestry.com's online subscription database and typed in BOELEN in NEW YORK. I got 3 'hits' on the PERSI index. There is also a PERSI CD you can use, or your local library may have a copy.

Copy the information -- either by printing the page or writing it out, EXACTLY as you see it.

For BOELEN in New York one of the hits I got was for "Boelen Arms" in the NYGBR (New York Genealogical & Biographical Record) Vol. 67, Issue 4, Oct. 1926. I will need all that information to order the article.

Now I go to the online PERSI order form at

http://www.acpl.lib.in.us/database/graphics/order_form.html

Print this page.

Fill it out with as many as SIX articles of your choice (I had 3 hits on Boelen so could fill it out for all 3)

Be sure to put all the info required (which you carefully printed or copied from wherever you searched)

Based on my one hit listed above, I have to fill out the form as follows:

• Title of article = Boelen Arms
• Title of Journal = New York Genealogical & Biographical Record
• Vol. = 67
• No. = 4
• Mon. = Oct
• Yr. = 1936

Put your name and address on the form where indicated, include your $7.50 and send the form and cheque off to the address given.

When the Allen County Public Library Foundation has photocopied all the pages, they will bill you for them at 20 cents per page.

It's one of the best deals around :-)

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