The Family History Library in Salt Lake City encompasses 142,000 square feet on five floors, making it the largest library of its kind in the world. With almost instant access to millions of genealogy records and resources in one place, you will likely be able to accomplish in a week at the Family History Library what might otherwise take months or years of ordering microfilms. The key is to properly prepare for your visit so you don't waste a minute once you're there!
1. Gather Together Your Family Information
Begin by gathering all the background information on your family beforehand, and familiarize yourself with the records you want to search. Check the
Family History Library holiday schedule to make sure it will be open.
2. Visit Your Local Family History Center
Visit your local Family History Center to familiarize yourself with the available printed materials and microfiche as well as to get some practice with using the microfilm readers and computer tools. This can simplify your research and save time when you get to the Family History Library.
Find a Family History Center near you.
3. Make a List of the Records You Want to Search
Use the online Family History Library Catalog to select the records you wish to view when you get to the library and to determine if they are immediately available in the library. Films listed in the catalog as "Vault" films will need to be requested in advance (usually 2-3 days). You can do this by email fhl@ldschurch.org or fax prior to your visit.
- U.S. and Canada microfilms, fax: (801) 240-1924
- British microfilms, fax: (801) 240-1928
- International microfilms, fax: (801) 240-1929
4. Plan What You Want to Bring With You
Unlike many research facilities, the Family History Library invites you to bring all your "stuff." All computers in the Family History Library have a USB connection, so you can bring a Flash Drive to download and save information. Laptop computers are also welcome with Internet and electric plugs throughout the five floors of the library. The FHL is a public place, so you may want to bring along a cable lock or plan not to let your laptop out of your sight.5. Pocket Change Not Required
The library has installed copy card readers on the majority of its photocopiers, and microfilm and microfiche printers, allowing you to purchase a copy card (bills accepted) in the amount that you need. Alternatively, bill changers are also available in the library. There is no charge to use the microfilm scanners to burn images on CD, however blank CD's may be purchased from Library Access Services for $0.75 each. The vending machines in the break room also accept bills or change.6. Familiarize Yourself With the Area
Familiarize yourself with the
parking and transportation options near the Family History Library. Many people find it easiest to stay in one of the nearby hotels and walk back and forth to the Family History Library. City blocks in Salt Lake City are double the length of the average city block (almost a 1/4 mile), so keep that in mind when choosing your hotel!
7. Welcome the Free Orientation
If this is your first visit to the library, considering beginning at the Orientation Room where you can attend an 8 minute presentation overviewing the library's collections and services. If you have time you may also want to take advantage of one of the many free genealogy classes offered by the library.8. Plan Your Meals
No food or drink is allowed in the library except in the snack room on the main floor. Several restaurants are available nearby. The cafeteria in the Church Office Building (two blocks east) is available for library patrons for lunch from 11:30 to 1:30 P.M. Lunch passes are required and are available at the information desk in the main foyer of the library.9. Search the Family History Books First
Search the family history books first, as they are not available on loan at your local Family History Center!10. Write Your Name on Your Copy Card
Almost everyone who has visited the Family History Library has walked off without retrieving their copy card from the machine at least once. I know I have! Write your name on your copy card as soon as you purchase, and you'll most likely find it returned to you when you leave it behind.
