More than 700,000 patrons will visit the Family History Library of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in downtown Salt Lake City this year. Summer usage at the library, considered the world’s largest holder of genealogy records, is typically high.
A recent article published by the Associated Press detailed the attraction of visiting the library, considered one of the top 10 tourist attractions in the state of Utah.
Paul Nauta, manager of public affairs for FamilySearch, says family history work is a fun diversion from other activities young people are involved with. He says that with new advances in technology, it is more appealing than ever for them to get involved in family history.
“Young people are Internet savvy,” Nauta said. “They are early adaptors to new programs online, and they can help those around them.”
As a student, Brandi Hales says that by doing family history she is better able to understand her family and herself.
“It’s like being a detective for your family,” said Gerald Haslam, BYU family history coordinator. “After finding what you are looking for, you can share it with your living relatives.”
Recognizing that millions of people throughout the world have their own reasons to be interested in family history, the Church makes its collections of microfilmed and digitized records freely available to everyone.
The library is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Monday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 801-240-6535.