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This information will be updated as we determine the best ways to serve our guests, keep our staff safe, and align with guidance from the leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and local government guidelines during these uncertain times.

1. When will the Family History Library re-open?
We currently do not have a precise opening date. We will announce a date when it has been approved, and when we can do so safely for our staff and our guests.

2. What will the process be to re-open?
The Family History Library will re-open in 3 phases:


 * Phase 1: The Family History Library will reopen by reservation only 5 days a week with limited hours. Initially, a limited number of professional researchers working for clients will have priority to allow the staff to refine the new processes, groups will not be accommodated during Phase 1.
 * Phase 2: The Family History Library will be open for longer hours than phase 1, to more guests by appointment. Small groups may be accommodated by appointment. Details will be forthcoming.
 * Phase 3: The Family History Library will open with more hours and days, with all services, open to all without appointment.

4. What will the hours be?
The Family History Library will be open for limited hours during Phase 1. It will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

5. What precautions are you taking to protect Library users and staff, and minimize risk of infection?
We hold the safety of our staff and our guests in the utmost importance. We will follow state guidelines regarding physical distancing, limiting the number of guests and staff on each floor, wearing masks, frequent hand-washing, and thorough cleaning of the building. Hand-sanitizing stations are available on each floor. We ask that guests and staff stay home if they are experiencing any of the symptoms of COVID-19. Books and films that have been used will be shelved between 24 and 48 hours after use. Online consultations will be available to assist guests both on-site in the Library and remotely.

6. Will I be required to wear a mask?
Yes, during Phase 1 all staff and guests will wear face masks or shields.

7. What services will be available?
The following services will be available during the Phase 1 re-opening:


 * A limited number of staff
 * Computer stations with social distancing
 * Books, microfilm, and microfiche (will be re-shelved 12 to 24 hours after use)
 * Book scanners
 * Restrooms
 * Hand-sanitizing stations on each floor
 * Elevators (social distancing practices should be followed as possible)
 * Vending machines and snack room
 * Drinking fountains

8. What online services are available to everyone worldwide?

 * One-on-one online consultations:https://bit.ly/3hKQdLm
 * Online classes and webinars: https://bit.ly/34JqxIV
 * Learning Center: https://bit.ly/2Cp0o8e
 * FamilySearch Communities: https://bit.ly/2YgRWjN

9. What services will be available at a later date?

 * Main floor Discovery experiences
 * High Density Material Requests
 * In person research consultations

9. Will I be able to use the books and microfilm/fiche?
Yes. Books, microfilm, and microfiche will be available for use and will be refiled between 24 and 48 hours after use.

10. Will the vending machines and snack room be open? What about drinking fountains?
The vending machines in the snack room the drinking fountains will be open.

11. Will I be allowed to research on multiple floors?
Yes.

12. Why are you giving preference to professional researchers?
We understand that many professional researchers depend on the Family History Library’s resources for their livelihood. The Library’s closure has significantly affected their ability to continue research for their paying clients. Because of this, during the Phase 1 opening, we will give preference to professional researchers.

13. Who is considered a professional researcher?
During Phase 1 of the re-opening of the Family History Library professional genealogists are considered to be those whose living depends on accessing genealogical records.

14. Will research specialists be available if I have a question?
Yes and no. One staff member will be on each floor to answer questions. If you have a question that he or she cannot answer, we encourage you to make an appointment for an online consultation.

15. When will you open with regular days/hours?
A full re-opening is dependent on the local COVID-19 infection rate, as well as direction from The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints leaders and state and city authorities. We do not yet have a date set for a full re-opening.The Family History Library is located in a state-mandated yellow phase. Full services and hours may not be available until after Salt Lake moves to green status.

16. My genealogy group would like to visit the FHL. Are you admitting groups?
During Phase 1 we will not be admitting groups.

17. I would like to bring my youth group to visit the Family History Library Discovery Center. Can we come?
During Phase 1, the Discovery Experiences will not be available and we will not be admitting groups.