Whether for seasoned researchers with years of experience or curious family history newcomers with simple questions about their ancestors, a new FamilySearch Library in Riverton, Utah, is making it easier and more convenient for south valley residents to look into the branches of their family tree. The new Riverton FamilySearch Library is a state-of-the-art family history research center equipped with a treasure trove of tools and resources.
The library replaces 24 smaller family history centers that had been operating in Latter-day Saint stake centers (meetinghouses) in the southern part of the Salt Lake Valley until earlier this year. Consolidating the smaller centers into a larger facility will enhance the experience of patrons significantly. In the new library, visitors will enjoy extended hours, broader research assistance and access to significantly more genealogical resources.
“Once fully stocked, the new library will be home to 50,000 microfilms of most interest to researchers in the area,” said Sharon Hintze, acting director of the Riverton FamilySearch Library. “If we don’t have a specific film, a patron order can be delivered the very next day.”
When the library opens officially on Monday, 21 June 2010, the library and its resources will be available free to the public (a small fee may be incurred for computer printing or photo copies). Patrons are invited to participate in free training and research classes. In fact, the library is equipped with a state-of-the-art computer training lab and four multipurpose training rooms.
The library staff is anxious to assist patrons. “Bring in your tough family history questions and dead ends,” said Hintze. “Our research staff is ready to help. We love the excitement patrons experience when they make a discovery or find something unexpected.”
The public is invited to an open house, 17–19 June 2010, at the new library. Open house activities will include ongoing orientations, a video tour of the Granite Mountain Records Vault, opportunities to explore FamilySearch’s newest products and services, and hands-on demonstrations of the process and technologies used to digitally preserve and publish historic records online. There will also be fun family history–related activities for children 8 years of age and older.
The library is located on the main floor of the Church-owned Riverton Office Building at 3740 West Market Center Drive (13400 S. Bangerter Highway).
Open House Dates and Times
Thursday, 17 June 2010 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, 18 June 2010 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday, 19 June 2010 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.