Finding Your Roots: Exploring the Family History Library in Salt Lake City
World’s Largest Genealogical Archives
Salt Lake City, nestled in the picturesque state of Utah, holds a hidden gem for genealogy enthusiasts and history buffs alike - the Family History Library. Whether you're embarking on a quest to uncover your family's lineage or simply interested in delving into the fascinating world of genealogical research, a visit to the Family History Library promises to be an enriching and enlightening experience. Join me as we embark on a journey to explore this remarkable institution and discover the stories of our ancestors.
1. A Gateway to the Past:
Situated in the heart of Salt Lake City, the Family History Library is the largest genealogical library in the world. Owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it houses an extensive collection of historical records, microfilms, books, and digital resources. The library serves as a valuable resource not only for those members of the faith but also for anyone interested in tracing their family history.
2. Unparalleled Resources:
The library boasts an impressive collection of over 2.4 million rolls of microfilm, 727,000 microfiche, 356,000 books, and numerous digital resources. These invaluable archives cover a wide range of locations, including records from the United States, Europe, Latin America, Asia, and Africa. Visitors have access to birth, marriage, and death certificates, census records, immigration records, military records, and much more. Knowledgeable staff members are readily available to guide and assist visitors in their research journey.
3. State-of-the-Art Technology:
The Family History Library has embraced the digital age, providing visitors with cutting-edge technology to aid in their research. The library offers free access to numerous online databases, including Ancestry.com, Findmypast, and MyHeritage, providing an extensive range of genealogical resources at your fingertips. High-speed internet, scanners, and printers are available throughout the library, enabling visitors to digitize and save copies of documents for future reference.
4. Expert Guidance and Workshops:
One of the highlights of visiting the Family History Library is the opportunity to seek guidance from experienced genealogists. These experts offer one-on-one consultations, helping visitors overcome obstacles, navigate complex records, and uncover new leads. Additionally, the library hosts regular workshops and classes on various topics, ranging from beginner's genealogy to DNA testing. These educational opportunities empower visitors with the necessary skills and knowledge to embark on their own genealogical quests.
5. Immersive Research Environment:
The library provides a serene and conducive environment for focused research. With its spacious reading rooms, comfortable seating areas, and well-organized resources, it offers a haven for genealogists to delve into their family history undisturbed. The tranquil atmosphere of the library, coupled with the shared passion of fellow researchers, creates a sense of camaraderie and community that is truly special.
What to Know:
Current Hours:
Monday: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Tuesday–Thursday: 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
Friday–Saturday: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
*Help is available on Saturdays and most holidays but staff will be limited.
Address:
35 North West Temple Street Salt Lake City, Utah 84150
With 5 floors, the Family History Library has a lot to offer, and research materials have been reorganized to improve space and help visitors find what they are looking for more easily.
The 2 top floors of the library are still devoted to United States and Canada research materials, with microfilms on the second floor and books on the third.
The 2 lower floors (B1 and B2) will now mirror the top floors with international microfilms on B1 and international books on B2.
A visit to the Family History Library in Salt Lake City is a pilgrimage for those seeking to connect with their roots and uncover the stories of their ancestors. Whether you're a seasoned genealogist or just beginning your journey, this remarkable institution provides an unmatched wealth of resources, state-of-the-art technology, and expert guidance. So, pack your bags, bring along your curiosity, and embark on an extraordinary adventure of self-discovery at the Family History Library - a place where the past comes to life and the stories of our ancestors await their resurrection.
See the historic sites and hear the famous stories on a Salt Lake City sightseeing bus or trolley guided tour. Click a link below for details: