Restrictions for Viewing Images in FamilySearch Historical Record Collections

Access to records is regulated by contract with the archive and business partner the data is received from. The terms of these agreements may change over time. In some cases FamilySearch does not receive permission to publish images or complete index records on our site.

Some images may only be viewed when a user is signed-in to FamilySearch. Some images may only be viewed online by members of supporting organizations. And some images are only available at family history centers.

At times, users of the FamilySearch website may encounter various messages when attempting to view images of Historical Record Collections. Each of these notices provides instructions on how to receive access to the images.

Images available at a Family History Center

Images available at a Family History Center and affiliate library

Images available on a partner site or record custodian

Images available on a partner site (Fold3.com)

The FamilySearch YouTube video Access to Records at Familysearch will help to explain how FamilySearch is able to provide free access to millions of historical record images and why there are other records that have limited access.

For more information see What are the image restrictions in Historical Records?

To find the family history center nearest you, use the Search for a place or address on Find a Family History Center and FamilySearch Affiliate Libraries.

Restrições para Visualização de Imagens em Coleções de Registros Históricos do FamilySearch