When a researcher is seeking to understand or locate a new set of records, it is often beneficial to direct questions to the records caretaker, whether by phone or on the web. Some offices have additional resources that researchers can use to gain a greater understanding of public records. One example is a new blog launched by the Alameda County Treasurer Tax-Collector’s office – titled Publican’s Postings, after the name of tax collectors in ancient Rome – that offers insight into the Treasurer’s office. The first two blogs, published as PDF files, explain property tax bills providing a great primer on how these records work.