In 1938, the Genealogical Society of Utah began microfilming records. As you read this, about 150 photographers are filming birth, marriage, death, probate, land, military and other records throughout the world. These records are then made available to library patrons either as microfilm or as microfiche. In addition to all of this, the Family History Center has an enormous collection of written family histories, biographies, genealogies and local histories published as books and other reference materials. Most of this vast collection of genealogical resources is available on loan through about 2,000 Family History Centers, many of which are more heavily used by people who are not members of the LDS Church than by members.
Many genealogists have a love-hate relationship with the library.
They love its resources but are frustrated by any number of things. Some criticisms are well grounded and constructive. Some are petty. Others are founded on misunderstandings and false impressions. Nothing is so certain to unleash a flurry of warm discussion on genealogical forums on the Internet than criticism of the library.