Discovering Our Past, Connecting Our Future
Metropolitan Library System
Innovation Synopsis
“Every family has a story. Discovering Our Past, Connecting our Future turns curiosity into connection by helping people uncover the places and moments that shape their lives. Through hands-on genealogy, storytelling, and community engagement, participants don't just research the past; they discover how their personal history is woven into the larger story of their community."
Challenge/Opportunity
The primary goal of this initiative was to increase usage of our genealogy and family history resources and spark an interest in genealogy among the community.
Challenges:
1. Reach and engage community members who do not currently use library services
2. Limited exposure to library resources
Opportunities:
1. Reach guests of all ages via an intergenerational approach
2. Utilize staff skill set and expertise
Key Elements of Innovation
Through innovative outreach, we brought family history services directly to the public through Sidewalk Genealogy, offering personalized assistance and immediate access to printed records. Partnerships with Ancestry® and local genealogy groups expanded resources and expertise, while collaborations with the Edmond History Museum introduced young learners to the importance of museums and historical collections in preserving family stories. Together, these efforts increased engagement, removed barriers to access, and inspired connections to local history.
These initiatives demonstrate that library service extends beyond library walls. By bringing expertise into the community and forging partnerships with local groups, we expanded access to family history resources, inspired new audiences, and strengthened community connections. Our work illustrates that the library is not an island but a vital community partner that fosters discovery, preserves heritage, and enriches lives.
Achieved Outcomes
Success was measured by the number of guests in attendance, usage data from our genealogy databases, and participant surveys. We had 54 participants in Sidewalk Genealogy, 11 participants at Unearth Your Story, and a total of 39 have attended Genealogy 101 between Oct 2025 and Jun 2026.
Data on the number of overall searches in our genealogy databases shows a 7.39% increase from Oct 2025 to Nov 2025. Data shows a 6.01% increase in the number of Ancestry® searches when comparing Oct 2024 - Jun 2025 to Oct 2025 - Jun 2026. This data indicates the success of both our Sidewalk Genealogy and our Genealogy 101 initiatives.
Survey feedback collected from youth participants was positive. Verbal feedback from guests was positive, and we were thanked several times for our efforts with these initiatives.
New partnerships were established with SAR and DAR groups, and both have committed to future library programs. Vault 405 has pledged to offer its facility for upcoming joint events.
