Family History Library/Group Visit Options

Family History Library  Group Visit Options

Overview
The Family History Library welcomes group visits. We offer a variety of opportunities for groups to learn about family history and how to use FamilySearch Family Tree. Families, children, youth, and adult groups will enjoy activities that are engaging and instructive.

Options for Your Group
Here are some of the options your group can choose from. You can select a specific option, or mix and match to tailor your activities to the interests of your group and the time you plan to spend at the library:


 * Orientation: Self-guided online orientation of the Family History Library.
 * FamilySearch Family Tree activities: Use computers in a lab to learn basic FamilySearch Family Tree techniques and features in a highly interactive, fun presentation. (60 minutes)
 * Find A Name: An exciting, informative presentation to learn how to use descendancy research to find your cousins. (60 minutes)
 * Searching Activity: Learn how to search through historical records on familysearch.org and other online databases to find your ancestors. (60 minutes)
 * FamilySearch Indexing: Learn about FamilySearch indexing and how to get started. (60 minutes)
 * Scavenger Hunt: Get to know the Family History Library by taking a scavenger hunt on the different floors, becoming acquainted with the facility as you look for clues. (recommended for youth, 60 minutes)
 * Memories of Me: Creating a personal timeline that introduces groups to journal writing and keeping personal and family histories in an enjoyable way. (20-30 minutes)
 * Genealogical societies: Genealogical societies usually visit the library over the course of a few days for research, and typically are self-directed. They may choose to reserve a classroom for their own group activities and instruction.
 * Boy Scout Genealogy merit badge workshop: The Family History Library offers a monthly Boy Scout Genealogy merit badge workshop, on the third Saturday of each month. Prior registration is required to attend. For more information on the workshop and instruction on how to register, click Genealogy merit badge workshop.

Family History Research Classes
In addition to the above options, classes are taught most days on how to do research in various geographical areas. Click Patron Class Schedule to see what classes are being offered and how to register for them. (Approximately 60 minutes per class.)

Make a Reservation
Use the Online Registration Form to make a reservation for your group. Do this at least one week in advance of your planned visit. Click Library Hours to see the Library's hours and holiday schedule.

Prepare for Your Visit

 * Obtain a FamilySearch Account in advance. If your groups plans to learn about how to use FamilySearch Family Tree, you will have a much more productive experience if all of the members of your group obtain a FamilySearch Account(either an LDS account or FamilySearch account) before coming to the library. Go to the FamilySearch account link previously mentioned to obtain an account.

When you come to the library, be sure to have each member of your group bring his or her username and password.


 * Bring genealogical information. Have each member of your group bring some genealogical information about his or her family. For example, who in your family do you want to find more information about? If you have a specific name, a place where they came from, and an estimated birth, marriage or death date, your searching will be more successful. If available you could also bring a pedigree chart or family group record filled in with as much information as is currently known. This can help in finding additional family information in FamilySearch during your visit to the library.
 * Bring enough leaders to help children and youth. If your group is primarily composed of children or youth, have enough leaders to help them have a fun and productive experience while at the same time maintaining respect for other guests in the library.

We look forward to your visit.