Family Search Library, Salt Lake City

The FamilySearch Library (FSL), formerly known as the Family History Library, stands in the heart of Salt Lake City as the world’s largest genealogical research facility. Operated by FamilySearch, the genealogical branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), the FSL traces its origins to the establishment of the Genealogical Society of Utah (GSU) in 1894. Since opening its current location just west of Temple Square on October 23, 1985, the library has welcomed the public free of charge, drawing thousands each year who are passionate about uncovering their family histories.

The FSL houses a remarkable collection that includes over 2.4 million rolls of microfilmed records, 727,000 microfiche, 356,000 books and serials, 125,000 periodicals, and 3,725 electronic resources. This vast archive represents genealogical information from over 100 countries, making it an invaluable resource for both seasoned researchers and beginners alike. Professional genealogists and knowledgeable volunteers assist in around 30 languages, offering expertise in reading, translating, and tracing genealogically relevant documents. For those needing extra guidance, the library also provides free one-on-one consultations, as well as both on-site and online classes covering various genealogical research methods.

One unique aspect of the FamilySearch Library is its mission, which aligns with the LDS Church’s belief in eternal family connections. Families who were not able to complete saving ordinances in life can have them completed posthumously by proxy, making family history work a central, spiritually significant task for the church.

Over the years, the library has adapted its resources to meet the demands of the digital age. The GSU’s historical microfilming project, which began in 1938, has now evolved into a fully digitized archive, available through the FamilySearch website. This accessibility allows users to explore genealogical records from anywhere in the world, bridging past generations with present-day searchers.