If a 19th century genealogist saw the advantages we have today, they would be astonished and probably more than a little envious of the technology we enjoy today. For a genealogy addict like me, it has been so exciting to see the resurfacing of millions of old records that have been stored away in files and book cases for years. We can now even find and read rare limited edition books without leaving home!
For example, The Abridged Compendium of American Genealogy is a book I sought back in 2004. I was not aware of any sites that made it freely available for viewing, so I ended up having to buy a copy for $56 - a bargain considerable the sheer amount of valuable information it supplies, but a hefty price for the small piece of information I needed out of it. You will be glad to hear you can now read it online for free, thanks to HathiTrust Digital Library and the University of Michigan.
Source:
Virkus, F. Adams. (1925). The abridged compendium of American genealogy: first families of America; a genealogical encyclopedia of the United States. Chicago: A.N. Marquis & company.