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SALT LAKE CITY — FamilySearch has announced RootsTech Connect 2022 will be held virtually and for free, March 3 to 5 in 2022, rather than in person in London and Salt Lake City as originally planned.
RootsTech is a family history and technology conference and trade show put on by FamilySearch, a nonprofit genealogical organization. This year's RootsTech Connect conference was their first fully virtual conference, and it attracted more than 1.5 million visitors from over 240 countries — the largest gathering in RootsTech history. After the success and the reach of this year's virtual event, FamilySearch has decided to keep the next installment virtual as well, though they are planning to shift to a hybrid in-person and virtual model in the future.
"Honestly, the possibilities are endless. While we are sad that the in-person event will not be taking place in London this fall or in Salt Lake City this March, we cannot wait to connect with you wherever you are in the world," RootsTech director Jen Allen said in a video announcement.
The virtual experience allowed for greater international reach, giving access to thousands of people all over the world, who could participate for the first time. Over 1,500 sessions of this year's conference were also recorded and are available for free on the RootsTech website.
"After RootsTech Connect 2021, we realized that we could bring the joy of family history to millions of people, no matter where they are, through an online, virtual RootsTech experience," Steve Rockwood, FamilySearch International CEO, said.
RootsTech Connect 2022 will offer a mix of on-demand, livestream and interactive sessions where people can socialize, ask questions and learn from experts and enthusiasts. There will also be demonstrations and multicultural celebrations.
Registration for RootsTech 2022 will open in September 2021.
