The MGS Education Committee is seeking experienced genealogists to share their knowledge in an in-person classroom setting.

Do you have expertise in a specific type of genealogical research or record set? We are especially interested in presenters on these topics:

• Minnesota (Midwest) African American Research
• Minnesota (Midwest) Native American Research
• Minnesota (Midwest) Asian American Research
• Vital Records & Vital Record Substitutes
• Church Records
• Scandinavian Research
• DNA

If you have experience in any of these areas—or another specialized topic—we’d love to hear from you!

Contact us at education@mngs.org to learn more about this opportunity.

We’d like to share an update regarding the MGS Webmaster role. Many of you know that Mia Sierra-Patton took this position during a turbulent time for MGS. She did an outstanding job—by stepping up to the plate without knowing exactly what workload to expect.

Recently, Mia’s personal workload has grown, and since Markus Hoesli was serving as her backup, she asked if we could switch roles. As of last week, Markus has now taken over the responsibilities as MGS Webmaster, while Mia will continue as my backup. She will also assist in promoting MGS signature events such as North Star and UMGI.

Please send any website-related information to webmaster@mngs.org —including details for Branch and Partner events. I’m retired, so I’ll do my best to post updates promptly.

Thank you,
Markus Hoesli

Call for MGS Award Nominations

The MGS Awards Committee invites nominations for MGS service and achievement awards that will be presented at the North Star Awards Ceremony on the evening of Friday, October 24th, 2025.

Making a nomination is easy.  Using the form to the right, simply write a few sentences telling the Committee why your nominee should be honored with one of the awards below. If you have trouble with the form, just send an email to the Awards Committee (awards@mngs.org).  Anyone – both MGS members and non-members – may submit nominations. Nominations are due September 19, 2025.

Confused about getting started with family research?
Curious about how MGS and the Hoffman Research Library can help?

Join us for our twice a month “Beginning Genealogy and Library Tour” — perfect for beginners nd seasoned researchers alike!

Whether you’re just starting your family history journey or looking for fresh ideas to tackle stubborn research problems, these free sessions will give you a strong starting point or some new ideas.

When & Where

Dates:
The second Saturday and last Sunday of the month. Specific dates are posted on our website

Time:
1:00–4:00 PM

Location:
Minnesota Genealogy Center

Library Manager Jeanne Bielke-Rodenbiker (MILS) will introduce the library’s many unique resources, guide beginners onto the right research path, and offer strategies to help experienced attendees solve challenging problems.

The Minnesota Genealogical Society maintains the Hoffman Research Library at the Minnesota Genealogy Center in Mendota Heights—conveniently located between St. Paul and Minneapolis.

Current Hours:

• Monday: 10 AM – 6 PM
• Wednesday: 10 AM – 4 PM
• Thursday: 10 AM – 6 PM
• Saturday: 10 AM – 4 PM

Learn more at: mngs.org/Hoffman-Research-Library

Volunteers Make It Possible
Our open hours depend on dedicated volunteers. No experience? No problem! New volunteers are paired with experienced ones to learn the ropes. It’s a fun way to meet people, expand your own genealogy knowledge, and keep the library open for all. Even an occasional gift of your time makes a big difference.

The Hoffman Research Library accepts donations of books and materials for our collection.

Please review our Collection Development Policy to see the types of materials we can accept. Donations may be brought to the welcome desk during library hours.

Thank you for your generosity!

Gifts from our members strengthen our collection and provide new resources for all researchers seeking to discover their roots.