Since 2003, the Washington State Genealogical Society has recognized more than 450 outstanding volunteers and teams, nominated by their local society or genealogical organization for their service and dedication. These volunteers are the backbone of their local society, giving their time and expertise, to the organization and the field of genealogy. In the next month, you will be introduced to each of the 2015 award recipients and learn why they received the 2015 WSGS Outstanding Volunteer and Team Award.

Today we’re introducing Mary Stolaas of Nordland, Washington, who was nominated by the Jefferson County Genealogical Society (JCGS). She was recognized for her dedicated volunteer efforts to expand and simplify local library resources.

Mary Stolaas

As a retired librarian, Ms. Stolaas took on the job of reorganizing JCGS’s library of over 2,000 books and CD’s to conform to the Dewey Decimal System. Over the last few months, Ms. Stolaas has made the entire collection available online, using a program called “Library Thing.” As a result, JCGS members can now access the Library Things website and look for a resource by using a keyword to see whether the book or CD is available. Members no longer have to know the specific title or author to locate the book or CD. “Library Thing” also allows the user to search other libraries in its network, thus expanding the availability of genealogical resources.

Ms. Stolaas is a detail-oriented and respected member of the JCGS, and illustrates that she richly deserved being a recipient of a 2015 WSGS Outstanding Volunteer Award.

For more information on the WSGS Outstanding Volunteer Award program, visit the Recognition page of the WSGS website or contact Roxanne Lowe, Recognition Chair, at Roxanne@thekeeffes.com.