FamilySearch centers and affiliate libraries are available to help you make discoveries about your family story. With locations across the world, there's a good chance you can access one for family history research help.
Here are some of the similarities and differences between these two types of FamilySearch locations.
FamilySearch Affiliate Library | FamilySearch Center |
| More than 2,000 locations | More than 6,000 locations |
| Found in about 25 countries | Found in about 150 countries |
| Located mostly in public or higher education libraries, archives, or genealogical or historical society facilities | Located most often in a church building |
| Usually open more hours than a center | Limited hours |
| Staffed by employees and or some volunteers | Staffed by volunteers |
| View limited-access historical records at FamilySearch.org | View limited-access historical records at FamilySearch.org |
| Preservation resources, like photo scanners, are sometimes available. | Preservation resources, like photo scanners, are sometimes available at local centers worldwide. Preservation resources ARE available in all US and Canadian locations. |
| Access to subscription websites (varies depending on what the library has subscribed to) | Access to premium subscription sites |
| Learn more about affiliate libraries | Learn more about centers |
Please note that the specific services offered in each location will vary. Contact your local library or center for more information on what is available.