Family History Library, Genealogical research library in downtown Salt Lake City, United States
The Family History Library is a genealogical research facility just west of Temple Square in Salt Lake City, opened on October 23, 1985 at a cost of $8.2 million. It holds over 1.3 million rolls of microfilmed records onsite, 190,000 microfiche, 340,000 books and serials, and 125,000 periodicals, with records covering more than 100 countries. Visitors use book, photo and 35mm slide scanners, recording booths and a children's area.
The Genealogical Society of Utah, founded in 1894, started its library in the Church Historian's office on South Temple Street. It moved through several Salt Lake City sites before the current building west of Temple Square opened on October 23, 1985, at a cost of $8.2 million. Microfilming of records worldwide began in 1938, and in January 2023 the Family History Library was renamed the FamilySearch Library.
People from around the world come here to search for their ancestors and share stories about where their families came from. The rooms feel like a gathering place where visitors connect over the desire to understand their roots.
The library is open on several days each week, with staff members on hand to help visitors with their research. Plan to spend enough time for thorough searching, since working with historical documents requires patience and careful attention.
The Discovery Center features interactive digital displays that connect visitors with historical records from many countries. Exploring this section shows how technology helps people trace their family history in practical ways.
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