One of the best parts of working as the History Room Librarian at the library is being a part of the larger community of historians. Included in this community are those who have lived here a long time and have memories of growing up in, or just outside of town. I’m always reminded of journalist J.P. Hartley’s famous quote: “The past is a foreign country.

“The past is a foreign country… they do things differently there”. L.P Hartley

While most of us are keeping our eyes on the new year, it’s always worth a look back to see just how far we’ve come. Last year began with hope and optimism for many on-site events and presentations, each requiring a shift to the technology that would work its best magic.

Given America’s bedrock belief in the right to privacy and individual freedoms, answering questions for the Census has always raised questions by some who are concerned that the government may be intruding too much into people’s lives.

This is the first in a new monthly series of blog posts – please join in and comment with insights and experiences...and some family history if you have some! Each month we’ll pick a topic to consider and I’ll include some images found in the Sonoma County Library Special Collections, newspapers, books, and when possible some on-line links so that you can follow up and get the whole story.