About the Family History Library
The Family History Library, the largest library of its kind in the world, is located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, close to historic Temple Square.
Operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Library was originally established in 1894 as the Genealogical Society of Utah by church President Wilford Woodruff, as a means of assisting members of the Church identify their ancestors.
The Library generously opens its doors free of charge to all people, regardless of their religious affiliation, and welcomes over half a million visitors from throughout the world each year.
Housed in a facility of 142,000 square feet on five floors, with over 200 computers and 500 microfilm readers, the Library holds a vast collection of genealogical records from throughout the world - over 2.4 million rolls of microfilm, 742,000 microfiche and 310,000 books.
Internet access is available, with the databases of Ancestry.com (usually available on a subscription-only basis) being provided free of charge.
The collection is continually growing, as teams are sent throughout the world to microfilm genealogical data. Currently there are around 200 cameras operating in 45 countries.
ANCESTOR SEEKERS RESEARCH TRIPS TO THE FAMILY HISTORY LIBRARY
Some Frequently Asked Questions
How close is the Family History Library to the Plaza Hotel?
It couldn't be closer - it is right next door. Just a few minutes walk and you are there.
This event focuses on research in the United States, Canada, Great Britain and Germany. I have ancestors in other countries – can I do this research also?
The Library holds records from the United States, Canada, the British Isles, Europe, Latin America, Asia, Africa, Australia and New Zealand. You are more than welcome to spend time researching these records. Although our research consultants will only be available to help you with US, Canadian, British or German research, if you need help in other areas you will find the regular Library staff friendly and helpful.
Will I be left on my own in the Library?
No! Ancestor Seekers Research Consultants will be on hand to give help and advice each day from 9.00am to 12.00 noon and 2.00pm to 5.00pm. You will be assigned your own consultant who we anticipate will sit with you for around ten minutes or so each hour. If you need assistance in between these times, your consultant will arrange this for you.
Will I be able to spend time in the Library outside the Ancestor Seekers supported times?
Although Ancestor Seekers Research Consultants will be available between the hours of 9.00am and 12.00 noon and 2.00pm and 5.00pm each day, you may attend the Library at any time during its opening hours. During these times you may request help from the regular Library staff. The opening hours are:
Monday: 8.00am to 5.00pm
Tuesday-Saturday: 8.00am to 9.00pm
What should I do to ensure that I make the most of my research time while at the Library?
We encourage you to search, prior to your arrival in Salt Lake City, the Family History Library Catalog at:
http://www.familysearch.org/Eng/Library/FHLC/frameset_fhlc.asp
and take a note of the film numbers (or other references) of the records you would like to search. We also recommend that you come with specific research goals in mind that you bring with you as much information as you can.
I want to sign up but how do I know if the records I want will be available?
Check the Family History Library Catalog at:
http://www.familysearch.org/Eng/Library/FHLC/frameset_fhlc.asp
Can I use my laptop at the Library?
Yes, you may use your laptop at the library. However, you are cautioned not to leave this or any other personal belongings unattended. Neither the Library nor Ancestor Seekers cannot accept responsibility for lost or stolen items.
Will I be able to take a break from researching and visit some of the tourist attractions?
Yes. There is no obligation to be at the Library all the time. You may wish to take an extra long lunch or take a break from research for a few hours or even a whole day to do whatever you wish.
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