KEY TAKEAWAYS: GenFest 2026 held April 11 at Milne Recreation Center Over 40 genealogical, historical, and cultural organizations participating Focus on genealogy research, exhibits, workshops, and expert panels   The New Orleans Public Library‘s City Archives Special Collections wil l hold the third annual GenFest on April 11 at the Milne Recreation Center, bringing together genealogical, historical, and cultural organizations from across southeastern Louisiana. The festival, which has grown in popularity each year, focuses on the fundamentals of genealogy research under this year’s theme, “All in the Family.” More than 40 organizations will participate, offering exhibits, workshops, and professional speakers to guide attendees through genealogical research and preservation. Christina Bryant, director of City Archives Special Collections, said the event is designed to help both new and experienced researchers. “This event is a great way to learn about connecting the different threads that make up genealogy and conversely to discover how genealogy can inform other types of research,” she said. GenFest 2026 will feature City Archives staff explaining how to navigate library genealogy resources, as well as a panel discussion on preserving personal and family histories. Emily Painton, city librarian and executive director of the New Orleans Public Library, said the festival supports the library’s broader mission. “Through our work, we aim to transform lives, enrich neighborhoods, and preserve history. GenFest is a fantastic way to do all three at once, and we are so grateful to NORD for generously hosting us at the historic Milne Recreation Center,” Painton said. The festival is sponsored by the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library. Executive Director Shannan Cvitanovic noted that community donations make the event possible. “It’s been such a joy to watch GenFest grow into something bigger and better every year, and we are so proud to be a part of it,” she said. GenFest has previously been held at the Main Library and Dillard University, moving this year to the Milne Recreation Center to continue engaging the local community. Attendees can learn more at nolalibrary.co/genfest26. Founded in 1843, the library system now serves all of Orleans Parish with 15 locations. Its mission is to transform lives, enrich neighborhoods, and preserve history. Located on the third floor of the Main Library, the archives hold official municipal records of New Orleans, with origins dating to 1773 under Spanish governance. ...read more read less