Family History Library in Salt Lake City, Utah
In Salt Lake City, Utah at Temple Square , sits an amazing building.
The Family History Library at Temple Square is the largest genealogical library in the world and it attracts visitors from all over the globe to come find information about their ancestors.
The library was founded in 1894, and offers records and genealogical data for over 3 billion deceased ancestors ! ” Experienced research specialists and trained volunteers provide a unique and personal experience to help you discover your ancestors and grow your family tree.” (family search wiki)
The library is open to the public free of charge and is operated by FamilySearch, the genealogical arm of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Thanks, Covid
In 2020 the Library was closed in response to the Covid 19 pandemic and lockdowns. This allowed the Library to continue its remodel without having to disturb guests with the noise, dust and construction shutdowns.
what’s new?
From the Family Search Blog: (Click on link to be taken to read actual article)
NEWLY ORGANIZED RESEARCH MATERIALS “Perhaps the biggest changes guests will notice when they visit the remodeled library will be the new floor rearrangements. …research materials have been reorganized to improve space and help visitors find what they are looking for more easily.”
UPGRADED TECHNOLOGY: “Technology has been updated throughout the newly remodeled library. Many visitor computer stations now feature 2 or 3 monitors, and all stations accommodate guests’ laptops..The learning labs hold 111 additional computers to help accommodate more guests. “
BETTER LIGHTING: “Lights have been turned on throughout the library building, eliminating the dark corridors once needed for microfilm reading. Library spaces are now well lit, more inviting, and more conducive to learning. A room on each microfilm floor still holds a variety of traditional microfilm readers with low lighting for those who prefer that experience.”
but wait that’s not all!
SHELVING, FLOOR and DESK IMPROVEMENTS: “The library remodel added significantly more bookshelves to accommodate over 40,000 more volumes. On all floors, reference desks have been moved across from the elevators. Flat table space with charging stations has been expanded. Computer workstation heights are now adjustable, so guests may use them at convenient heights…The new desks also better accommodate guests with ADA needs.”
NEW DESKTOP BOOK SCANNERS: “Up-to-date microfilm readers and scanners now function with the computers at many visitor workstations so that guests may conveniently examine books and microfilm, and make digital image copies at their stations, rather than going to a designated scan or copy area.”
EXPANDED BREAK ROOM: An expanded and improved break room will not have an ice maker and kitchenette.
Phased reopening
Starting July 6, 2021, the Family History Library will begin a phased reopening, with limited hours from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Hours will then be expanded, so be sure to check with the Library for any changes.
HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!!
