Genealogy Research: Find Your Roots Online Using the Family History Library of Salt Lake City

The world's largest collection of genealogical records is available through the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Family History Library maintains an impressive collection of the names of over two billion deceased people. This incredible resource can help you uncover your family's history and connect with ancestors you never knew existed.

The History Behind the Library

Owned and run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the library was established in 1894 with the main purpose of collecting genealogical records and helping members of the Church in researching their respective family histories. What began as a religious mission has evolved into the world's most comprehensive genealogical resource, available to people of all backgrounds and faiths.

The Granite Mountain Records Vault

The Church built a massive vault into a mountainside about 25 miles from downtown Salt Lake City. The Granite Mountain storage facility houses the master copies of the Church's collection of more than three million records. This state-of-the-art preservation facility ensures that these precious historical documents will be available for future generations.

What's Stored in the Vault:

• Microfilm and microfiche records from around the world
• Digital records and databases
• Historical documents dating back centuries
• Birth, marriage, and death records from numerous countries
• Census records, immigration documents, and military records
• Church records from various denominations

Accessibility: Bringing Records to You

The great thing about this library's system is you do not have to physically go to Utah to access their amazing resources. The Family History Library has created an extensive network that brings these records to researchers worldwide.

Family History Centers (FHCs)

The library operates more than 3,400 branches in 64 countries throughout the world. These library branches, called Family History Centers or FHCs, help people look up their ancestors through official records.

FHC Services Include:

• Access to microfilm collections through circulation
• Computer access to online databases
• Expert assistance from trained volunteers
• Educational classes on genealogy research
• Free access to normally paid subscription services
• Equipment for viewing microfilm and microfiche

Monthly Circulation: Every month, over 100,000 microfilm rolls are circulated to the FHCs, ensuring researchers worldwide have access to the records they need.

Online Services: Research from Home

FamilySearch Internet Genealogy Service

The FamilySearch Internet Genealogy Service is an interactive website sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It represents one of the most significant developments in genealogy accessibility.

Launch and Impact:

• Launched in May 1999
• Registered 60 million hits on its first day
• Reached 100 million hits on the second day
• Continues to be one of the most visited genealogy websites worldwide

Available Online Resources:

• Searchable databases with billions of records
• Digital images of original documents
• Family tree building tools
• Collaborative research features
• Educational resources and tutorials

Effective Search Strategies

To make the most of the FamilySearch Internet Genealogy Service, follow these proven guidelines:

Start Broad, Then Narrow

Initial Search Strategy:

1. Search for a surname only to ensure you don't miss potential records
2. Review all results to identify possible matches
3. Look for variant spellings of surnames
4. Check for records where the first name might be abbreviated or nicknamed

Refine Your Search

For Common Surnames:

• Use both first and last names to narrow results
• Add middle names or initials when known
• Include birth year ranges
• Specify geographic locations

Progressive Search Refinement:

• Fill in additional fields gradually
• Start with essential information only
• Add details one at a time to see how results change
• Don't over-specify initially, as it may exclude relevant records

Family Connection Searches

Effective Techniques:

• Combine spouse names to improve search results and verify relationships
• For children: Enter father's full name and mother's first name
• Use family groups to find records of siblings
• Search for relatives when direct ancestor searches yield no results

Advanced Search Tips

Wildcards and Variations:

• Use wildcards (*) for name variations
• Account for spelling changes over time
• Consider phonetic similarities
• Search for women under both maiden and married names

Date Flexibility:

• Allow for 2-5 year variations in dates
• Remember that ages in census records are often inaccurate
• Consider different calendar systems for international records

Important Research Considerations

Information Accuracy

The service emphasizes that there are no guarantees of information accuracy. Genealogical research requires careful verification and critical thinking.

Verification Steps:

1. Check original source documents whenever possible
2. Cross-reference information across multiple sources
3. Communicate with data submitters to verify their sources
4. Use the service as a starting point for research, not as definitive proof

Building on Your Research

Documentation Best Practices:

• Record all sources, including negative searches
• Note discrepancies between sources
• Keep research logs of what you've searched and when
• Save digital copies of important documents

Collaboration Opportunities:

• Share your findings with other researchers
• Contribute to the collective database
• Connect with distant relatives researching the same lines
• Participate in surname or regional research groups

Getting Started with Your Research

Preparation Steps

1. Gather What You Know:

   • Collect family names, dates, and places
   • Interview living relatives
   • Gather family documents and photos
   • Create a basic family tree outline

2. Set Research Goals:

   • Focus on one family line at a time
   • Identify specific questions to answer
   • Prioritize which ancestors to research first

3. Learn the System:

   • Take advantage of online tutorials
   • Attend classes at local FHCs
   • Practice with searches you can verify

Making the Most of Free Resources

The service is completely free, which makes it an invaluable resource for budget-conscious researchers. Take advantage of:

• Free account creation
• Unlimited searches
• Free access to billions of records
• Free family tree building tools
• Free preservation of your research

Continuing Your Genealogy Journey

Beyond FamilySearch

While FamilySearch provides an excellent foundation, successful genealogy research often involves:

• Local courthouse records
• Cemetery records
• Newspaper archives
• DNA testing services
• Other genealogy websites and databases

Preserving Your Discoveries

Share Your Research:

• Upload your findings to FamilySearch
• Create family history books
• Share stories at family reunions
• Preserve documents and photos digitally

Your Family History Awaits

The Family History Library of Salt Lake City and its worldwide network of centers provide an unparalleled resource for discovering your roots. With billions of records at your fingertips, patient searching, and careful verification, you can uncover the stories of your ancestors and preserve them for future generations.

Remember, genealogy is not just about names and dates—it's about discovering the real people behind those names, understanding their lives, and connecting with your heritage in meaningful ways. Start your journey today through the Family History Library's vast resources, and prepare to be amazed by what you discover about your family's unique story.