Microfilms not available in the FamilySearch library

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This discussion was created from comments split from: Microfilm images not available?.

Brown8791

I just went to the FamilySearch Library today to lookup one of these microfilms that has no images availible on-line. When I got there, I found out that the library has been removing certain film numbers from their collection on the 2nd floor because, according to the library, they are among those that rarely get checked out. Now I have no access to these film numbers that I thought I could still access. My question is: where is the library storing these microfilms that have been removed and will they be available on-line at a future date? The worker helping me today had no idea. Any answers on this are appreciated.

MaureenE123

@Brown8791 In the past FamilySearch definitely said that any microfilms not available to view online would be available at the FamilySearch Library. As I read it, the current Help article still implies this.

https://www.familysearch.org/en/help/helpcenter/article/i-want-to-search-the-microfilms-at-the-family-history-library

As you say this is not the situation I would write a letter of concern to the FamilySearch Library, using FHL-SLC-FilmRequests@churchofjesuschrist.org as given in the Help Article, (even though your query is not about the catalogue, but this is the closest email address I could find). https://www.familysearch.org/en/help/helpcenter/article/how-do-i-request-a-correction-to-the-familysearch-catalog

However the end position may be that these microfilms will never be available , which is very sad in terms of earlier FS statements that they would always remain available at the FamilySearch Library.

MandyShaw1

There is clearly properly curated off-site storage for the library, since many of the catalogued books appear to be in it, so it is unclear why less used films cannot be moved there, catalogued as such to avoid nasty surprises of this sort, and brought on site when ordered up by readers planning visits. Could be a fire risk issue perhaps? But keeping the catalogue up to date feels like the main failure here (job no.1 for any library, surely?)

Áine Ní Donnghaile

If you read this article, you will see that not all microfilm is onsite and that film can no longer be ordered from the Archives.

Specifically:

What if I can’t view the film digitally at the Library?

Certain films have limited access, such as being required to have a FamilySearch account and/or be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. If you meet the requirements but still can’t view the film, look for a physical copy in the Library’s cabinets. If the physical copy is not available, unfortunately we can no longer order a copy from the FamilySearch Archives. You will need to wait until digital access is made available in the future.

There was a protracted discussion on this topic, on social media, a few months ago among several professional genealogists.