Are you looking for a reliable FamilySearch fact sheet to help you understand the world of online genealogy? Finding your ancestors can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Thankfully, there are amazing resources available today that make gathering your family history easier than ever before.
The embedded document below provides a comprehensive overview of the world’s most popular family tree platform. Whether you are a total beginner or a seasoned researcher, this guide explains exactly what the platform offers. It breaks down the tools, records, and collaborative features that can help you connect with your heritage.
What Exactly Is FamilySearch?
When reviewing any FamilySearch fact sheet, the first thing to know is that it is the world’s largest free genealogy resource. The platform allows visitors to search through billions of historical records to find their ancestors. It is generously sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The main goal of the website is to provide a massive database of historical records and a collaborative world family tree. It aims to help people from all over the world explore their unique ancestry. Users get direct access to digital images and indexes of birth, marriage, death, census, and land records.
Exploring the Key Features and Tools
One of the best things about the platform is its massive record collection. You can access digitized records from across the globe. Furthermore, the platform features a single, shared world tree where users can add information. This connects your specific family lines to millions of others.
Remarkably, all of these features, records, and the family tree are provided at absolutely no cost. The website also includes helpful resources for sharing memories, finding family activities, and learning research methods. If you need in-person help, they offer support through over 5,000 local family history centers.
Understanding How the Platform Works
Using the platform is incredibly straightforward. First, you search through independent collections of historical documents to find proof of your ancestors. Once you find a record, you can link it directly to your tree.
As you build your tree by adding information, you naturally connect with other users’ branches[cite: 1568]. This creates a massive, shared lineage. While the historical records remain independent, building the tree is a highly collaborative effort. Anyone can jump in and contribute to the world tree.
Just How Many Records Are Available?
The numbers listed on this FamilySearch fact sheet are truly staggering. As of early 2026, the platform holds over 16.93 billion searchable names in its historical records. Additionally, there are over 3.92 billion sources currently attached to the online family tree.
If you prefer reading, the site also offers over 652,000 free digital books. The database is never static; they frequently add millions of new records from places like the Philippines, Ireland, Italy, Colombia, and Guatemala. Millions of unindexed images are also available through the Explore Historical Images feature.
Who Can Join and How Much Does It Cost?
The platform is completely open to all people worldwide, and it is entirely free to join. To set up an account, you simply must be 13 years of age or older and provide an email address for verification. Children between 8 and 12 can also register, but they require permission from a parent or legal guardian.
It is a common misconception that the site is only for church members. In fact, a surprising 94% of all new names currently being added to the platform are done by non-LDS individuals. It is truly a global community effort.
Connecting Globally Through RootsTech
Finally, no FamilySearch fact sheet would be complete without mentioning RootsTech. Organized by FamilySearch, RootsTech is the world’s largest family history gathering. The event hosts around 15,000 in-person attendees in Salt Lake City.
For those who cannot travel, millions of attendees from nearly 200 countries view the sessions online during its three-day run in March. It is a wonderful way to learn more and celebrate your heritage. Be sure to review the embedded document below for even more quick facts!
