Here are five books that every genealogist should have in their library.  Plus a bonus book as one of my favorite family history books. Click the image to go to the book, if one suits your fancy!

They are:

#1 Evidence Explained, by Elizabeth Shown Mills is the gold standard for how to write proper source citations specific to genealogy.

#2 The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy, by Blaine Bettinger. This is, in my opinion, the best DNA book out there right now. It is clear and easy to understand without too much science techno-babble. With this book, you can see how your DNA results can help you with your family research.

#3 Genealogy Standards, by The Board for Certification of Genealogists. This book lays out simple easy “rules of the road” that all family historians should try to live by. This gets all of us on the same page regarding the genealogical industry standards. This is good for both professionals and hobbyist alike.

#4 Professional Genealogy, editor Elizabeth Shown Mills. This one is a guide/text book for professionals and want-to-be professionals to learn how to become a professional genealogist using industry standards. This book is used by the ProGen Study Groups.

#5 Mastering Genealogical Proof, by Thomas W. Jones. This book walks you through the Genealogical Proof Standards (GPS) and how to prove your ancestral relationships, from beginning to end using the GPS.

Bonus Book – Family Photo Detective, by Maureen Taylor. This is a fun book that helps you learn to date your old photos, what to look for and gain clues within them to further your family history.