About Former National Library of Canada

Introduction

What is the National Library of Canada?

We're a federal cultural agency responsible for collecting and preserving Canada's published heritage so that it's available for present and future generations of Canadians.

Who can use the National Library?

Students, professors, researchers, business people, public servants. They all need information and so do you! Our resources are available to anyone who needs information.

What kind of information do you have?

We have all kinds of information. How about Canadian literature? Music? History? Genealogy? Literary manuscripts and artists' books? Rare books? They're all available to you at the National Library.

Do you have anything besides books?

You bet! At the National Library, information comes in many different forms. There are tapes, records and compact discs in our Music Collection and personal papers and memorabilia in our Literary Manuscript Collection. We have educational kits in our general collection, research results from some of Canada's best young scholars in our Canadian Theses Service. We also have an assortment of material on computer disc, CD-ROM and in other electronic formats.

What about cultural activities?

We hold exhibitions and displays throughout the year. For example, "Out of This World", our exhibition of Canadian Science Fiction and Fantasy, and our exhibition on pianist Glenn Gould have enjoyed wide success. We also frequently have small exhibits of the works of Canadian authors and artists. We're always looking for ideas that will help us highlight Canada's literary and musical life.

What about readings and concerts?

We have literary and musical events throughout the year. Authors Michel Tremblay, Robertson Davies and Carol Shields, pianist Angela Hewitt and jazz violinist Mireille Proulx are among those who have entertained audiences at the National Library. We also host such special events as readings by the year's Governor General's literary award winners and an annual National Library lecture. Journalist Robert Fulford and playwright Antonine Maillet are among those who have been featured in this series.

How do I use the National Library's resources?

Just talk to your local or university librarian! The National Library works closely with many libraries across the country. Our collections and services act as extensions of those within your local library.

Our building is accessible to people with disabilities and all our own publications are available in alternative format on request.

The National Library of Canada is here to serve you with the information you need.