The newest offering from the Joseph Smith Papers project is not required reading.

But the LDS Church History Department hopes scholars and church members find the eight-pound book to be worth its hefty weight.

The "facsimile edition" of the "Revelations and Translations" series of the Joseph Smith Papers went on sale Tuesday, coinciding with the Sept. 22 date on which the LDS Church founder received the Golden Plates. The Church History Department presented a copy of the volume to Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve during a news conference at the Church History Library.

"This maybe gives new meaning to the term 'heavy reading,' " Elder Marlin K. Jensen, church historian and recorder, said as he handed over the book.

Elder Nelson offered some perspective on where the book fits into gospel study, while church historians explained its fit on the bookshelf, in the scholarly community and among members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The book appears strikingly different next to its predecessor, "Journals, Volume 1," which was an unexpected commercial success. But those who produced the new volume say its content merits special presentation.

"This publication … evidences the great importance that the early Saints placed on God's communication with man through a prophet," Elder Jensen said.

Elder Nelson referred to the book as "supplemental" for church members — no more critical to a love of Latter-day scriptures than the Dead Sea Scrolls are for the Bible. While on assignment in southern and central Utah recently, Elder Nelson asked area leaders who were interested in the book whether it should be required reading for members.

No, he was told. At $100 a copy, many members can't afford it.

"However, many of those same individuals indicated that they were going to purchase this new book regardless," Elder Nelson said. "Why? Because it would draw them closer to the Lord, his prophet and the process of revelation.

"I, too, believe that these blessings will come to all who study its pages. Serious students will appreciate the magnificence and value of this great book."

The "facsimile edition" is a textual and visual reproduction of the two earliest "revelation books" kept by the early church. They include "The Book of Commandments and Revelations," which has never been made available to the public, and the "Kirtland Revelation Book." The original manuscripts were on display under glass at the library for the media.