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From: Sharon Sergeant <>
Subject: [APG] Keeping Online Genealogy Free
Date: 11 Jul 00 08:53:54 EDT


Hello,
I would personally like to see professional genealogists comment on the
distinction between "free genealogy", "freely available genealogy material and
services" and the realistic costs involved in records preservation, access
and education.

It concerns me that this phrase "free genealogy" continues. The genealogy
community of professionals are particularly aware of what kinds of issues are
involved in balancing pro bono work with running a business and earning a
living, as well as the realities of the funds required for records
preservation and access.

I do not like to see the idea of "free genealogy" skimming over all of hard
work and personal contributions of a small number of individuals to continue
unrealistic expectations. "Rights and responsibilities" go hand in hand.

In particular, online genealogy is not free. I work in the internet router and
remote access vendor business. The billions of dollars invested in the
internet infrastructure are expected to return a profit - nomatter what the
product is.

thanks,
Sharon Sergeant
http://bostonstates.rootsweb.com


#1 [APG] Keeping Online Genealogy Fre ["Wenner, Susan" <>

______________________________

After MyFamily.com's buyout of RootsWeb, many genealogists are concerned
about online genealogy remaining free. What are the best ways for the
genealogy community to help keep access to family history data free for
Internet users? Tell the world what you think through
FamilyTreeMagazine.com's latest online poll at
http://www.familytreemagazine.com/freeaccess.html

***
Susan Wenner
Associate Editor, Family Tree Magazine


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