What's New at Library and Archives Canada?

Release of a new version of the Census of Canada, 1881 database

30 Apr 2013 17:45:43 GMT

Interruption of all LAC AMICUS services

30 Apr 2013 17:44:33 GMT

On Friday, May 3, 2013, from 4 p.m. to Sunday, May 5, 2013, 6 p.m. (EDT), there will be an interruption of all LAC AMICUS services that will affect all employees and clients of Library and Archives Canada. During this period, the following services will be unavailable: AMICUS GUI AMICUS Web Registered/Unregistered AMICUS z39.50 NLC Catalogue Z39.50 CAIN Web Canadian Information By Subject (CIBS) Electronic Publications Pilot System AMICUS link from Federated Search Public Opinion Research Reports Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Library and Archives Canada makes Canada’s documentary heritage more accessible than ever

26 Apr 2013 20:22:53 GMT

Images from early 20th-century Canadian books now on Flickr

23 Apr 2013 18:13:32 GMT

Major interruption of LAC computing services April 20, 2013

15 Apr 2013 16:20:31 GMT

On Saturday, April 20, 2013, from 6 a.m. to noon (EDT), a major interruption of computing services will affect clients of Library and Archives Canada (LAC). During this period, the following services will be unavailable: All LAC Websites All LAC applications (Library Search, Archives Search, AMICUS, etc.) Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Launch of an improved order form for reproductions

15 Apr 2013 16:02:59 GMT

Interruption of LAC Reproductions Services April 13, 2013

11 Apr 2013 20:10:20 GMT

On Saturday, April 13, 2013, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (EDT), an interruption of the Online Order Form for Reproduction Requests service will affect clients of Library and Archives Canada (LAC). Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Library and Archives Canada's 2013-14 Report on Plans and Priorities is now available online

28 Mar 2013 21:17:27 GMT

Canadian theatre images now on Flickr

27 Mar 2013 19:41:21 GMT

Photo Album: Official Opening of Double Take at the Canadian Museum of Civilization

26 Mar 2013 20:56:26 GMT

Speech: "Insightful. Revealing. Surprising. Double Take – Portraits of Intriguing Canadians presented at the Canadian Museum of Civilization "

25 Mar 2013 21:59:00 GMT

I Know You by Heart: Portrait Miniatures now at the Mendel Art Gallery in Saskatoon

22 Mar 2013 17:11:14 GMT

Double Take: Portraits of Intriguing Canadians now at the Canadian Museum of Civilization

22 Mar 2013 15:00:32 GMT

Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce the release of its latest podcast episode: Canada’s Royal Winter Game.

14 Mar 2013 15:49:46 GMT

Major interruption of LAC computing services March 16, 2013

14 Mar 2013 15:46:42 GMT

On Saturday, March 16, 2013, from 6 a.m. to noon (EDT), a major interruption of computing services will affect clients of Library and Archives Canada (LAC). During this period, the following services will be unavailable: All LAC Websites All LAC applications (Library Search, Archives Search, AMICUS, etc.) Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Release of a new version of the Census of Canada, 1911 database

26 Feb 2013 16:34:34 GMT

Franklin Expedition images now on Flickr

25 Feb 2013 15:26:53 GMT

Interruption of LAC Internet services February 25, 2013

21 Feb 2013 20:54:18 GMT

Library and Archives Canada releases sixth podcast episode

13 Feb 2013 13:29:50 GMT

Major interruption of LAC computing services February 16, 2013

11 Feb 2013 13:04:42 GMT

Release of a new version of the Census of Prairie Provinces, 1916 database

29 Jan 2013 18:13:41 GMT

Home Children images now on Flickr

21 Jan 2013 16:25:34 GMT

Meeting Challenges of the Future: From Reflection to Action is now online

18 Jan 2013 22:23:30 GMT

Library and Archives Canada acquires the first Bible printed in Canada

17 Jan 2013 19:16:50 GMT

Major interruption of LAC computing services January 19, 2013

14 Jan 2013 20:14:06 GMT

Another Step toward the Modernization of Textual Reprography Services at Library and Archives Canada

9 Jan 2013 20:11:48 GMT

Release of a new version of the Census of the Northwest Provinces, 1906 database

8 Jan 2013 20:10:37 GMT

Prime Minister Sir Mackenzie Bowell, 1894-1896, images now on Flickr

27 Dec 2012 13:49:25 GMT

Images of toys and games now on Flickr

20 Dec 2012 16:29:59 GMT

French Shore images by Louis Koenig now on Flickr

14 Dec 2012 15:52:07 GMT

Major interruption of LAC computing services December 15, 2012

10 Dec 2012 13:49:43 GMT

1917 Halifax Explosion images now on Flickr

6 Dec 2012 15:44:46 GMT

Images of dance in Canada now on Flickr

27 Nov 2012 14:50:25 GMT

Canadian football images now on Flickr

23 Nov 2012 15:10:36 GMT

Release of Three Grey Cup Heritage Videos on YouTube

21 Nov 2012 15:24:43 GMT

Major interruption of LAC computing services November 17, 2012

13 Nov 2012 15:16:55 GMT

Prime Minister Sir John Sparrow David Thompson images now on Flickr

13 Nov 2012 15:02:57 GMT

Images of animals in war (1914–1918) now on Flickr

9 Nov 2012 18:08:59 GMT

Curatorial video of the exhibition Faces of 1812 now on YouTube

9 Nov 2012 14:33:08 GMT

Curatorial video of the exhibition I Know You by Heart: Portrait Miniatures now on YouTube

6 Nov 2012 18:16:28 GMT

Movember images now on Flickr

5 Nov 2012 16:00:10 GMT

Major interruption of LAC computing services October 20, 2012

15 Oct 2012 20:32:02 GMT

Selkirk and Red River Settlement images now on Flickr

5 Oct 2012 21:11:03 GMT

Military tank images now on Flickr

27 Sep 2012 15:55:10 GMT

Double Take: Portraits of Intriguing Canadians opens at the McMichael Canadian Art Centre in Kleinburg

25 Sep 2012 15:41:08 GMT

Beyond Likeness: Contemporary Works Opens at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

25 Sep 2012 15:34:47 GMT

Canadian Women and the Peace Movement

21 Sep 2012 15:46:58 GMT

I Know You by Heart: Portrait Miniatures opens at the New Brunswick Museum in Saint John

20 Sep 2012 22:04:14 GMT

Pirates and Privateers images now on Flickr

19 Sep 2012 15:07:25 GMT

John George Diefenbaker images now on Flickr

18 Sep 2012 14:59:55 GMT

Major interruption of LAC computing services September 15, 2012

11 Sep 2012 16:05:10 GMT

On Saturday, September 15, 2012, from 6 a.m. to noon (EDT), a major interruption of computing services will affect clients of Library and Archives Canada (LAC). During this period, the following services will be unavailable: All LAC Websites All LAC applications (Library Search, Archives Search, etc.) Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Labour Day images now on Flickr.

4 Sep 2012 18:51:08 GMT

Images of the Trans-Canada Highway now on Flickr.

24 Aug 2012 15:19:28 GMT

New RSS Feed

21 Aug 2012 19:48:22 GMT

Images of the Dieppe Raid now on Flickr.

20 Aug 2012 18:50:47 GMT

Images of A. V. Roe Canada Ltd. (Avro) now on Flickr

17 Aug 2012 16:03:59 GMT

Images of Acadians now on Flickr

15 Aug 2012 16:19:12 GMT

Canadian Subject Headings in SKOS/RDF format

8 Aug 2012 15:57:04 GMT

Major interruption of LAC computing services August 18, 2012

8 Aug 2012 15:56:37 GMT

Images of summer sports and leisure activities now on Flickr

30 Jul 2012 17:07:53 GMT

Richard Bedford Bennett images now on Flickr

19 Jul 2012 17:09:46 GMT

Gatineau, July 19, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images of Prime Minister Richard Bedford Bennett is now available on Flickr. Richard Bedford Bennett was born in Hopewell Hill, New Brunswick, in 1870. His first foray into politics began in 1896 as alderman in Chatham, New Brunswick. By 1911, he was elected to the House of Commons, and later held the Cabinet position of Minister of Finance under Prime Minister Arthur Meighen. In 1927, the Conservative party held its first leadership convention and Bennett was elected leader. The Conservatives campaigned aggressively to fight the Depression and, through their efforts, won the election of 1930. After his party was defeated by the Liberals in 1935, Bennett continued to serve as Leader of the Opposition until 1938. He then retired to England where he died in 1947. To learn more about Richard Bedford Bennett, visit the Dictionary of Canadian Biography Online. Discover LAC images at Flickr.com, where you can comment on, tag and share content.

Charles Tupper images now on Flickr

18 Jul 2012 22:55:40 GMT

Gatineau, July 18, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images depicting Canada’s sixth Prime Minister, Sir Charles Tupper, is now available on Flickr. Sir Charles Tupper was born in Amherst, Nova Scotia in 1821. He entered politics in 1855 and became the Premier of Nova Scotia in 1864. After Prime Minister Mackenzie Bowell resigned in 1896, Tupper was appointed to the position by Governor General, Lord Aberdeen. That same year an election was held and the Liberals won the election. He remained Leader of the Opposition until 1901. To learn more about Sir Charles Tupper, visit the Dictionary of Canadian Biography Online. Discover LAC images at Flickr.com, where you can comment on, tag and share content.

LAC releases report on Analogue Holdings.

18 Jul 2012 16:42:16 GMT

The report aims to share the state of LAC’s documentary heritage in an effort to ensure that it is preserved for generations.

Major interruption of LAC computing services on July 21, 2012

16 Jul 2012 16:22:43 GMT

On Saturday, July 21, 2012, from 6 a.m. to noon (EDT), a major interruption of computing services will affect clients of Library and Archives Canada (LAC). During this period, the following services will be unavailable: - All LAC Websites - All LAC applications (Library Search, Archives Search, etc.) Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Remembering Yousuf Karsh

13 Jul 2012 21:45:14 GMT

Today marks the 10th anniversary of the death of Yousuf Karsh, the renowned photographer who called Canada home for most of his life. On July 5th, Mrs. Karsh donated 30 prints to the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO). Library and Archives Canada (LAC) holds the Yousuf Karsh records, which includes over 355,000 negatives and prints spanning Karsh’s career, 70 metres of textual records from his business, audiovisual recordings, philatelic materials, medals and art. LAC also holds all of the original negatives from his studio, including those from which the CHEO prints were made. Visit the Karsh Festival website to see some of his works. ?

Library and Archives Canada Revamped Web Presence

12 Jul 2012 21:48:51 GMT

A new gateway for finding out about Canada’s heritage will soon be opening up online: Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is developing a modernized website that will make it easier for you and Canadians everywhere to access its holdings. The new site includes a suite of helpful features and content, including drop-down menus, introductory and educational videos, a blog pilot project as well as quick links to LAC's social media platforms. The new site is one of the first federal sites to conform to the new Government of Canada design, with a set-up that already follows the new Treasury Board Secretariat Standard on Web Usability. It includes navigational aids that allow you to quickly browse what the site has to offer, and to complete the most popular online tasks. You will find it easier to discover the collection, do online research, get copies of materials and plan a visit to LAC, as well as access services designed for professionals, such as publishers, librarians and archivists. A short video also introduces you to the work LAC does, and a second video explains the basics of online research. As content from LAC’s existing website is steadily migrated to the new one, during this transition period both websites will remain online with uninterrupted user access to both. The site will be completed by summer 2013, when all of LAC’s existing Web content will have been transferred. Visit the new LAC site and find out for yourself what LAC is doing to make its information resources easy to find, increasingly available and accessible to all Canadians.

Like us! Library and Archives Canada now on Facebook.

12 Jul 2012 16:29:58 GMT

Channel surfing? Library and Archives Canada now on YouTube.

11 Jul 2012 16:20:32 GMT

Follow us! Library and Archives Canada now tweeting.

10 Jul 2012 19:29:34 GMT

Faces of 1812

9 Jul 2012 21:14:45 GMT

Faces of 1812 presents some of the men and women, both combatants and civilians, who experienced the War of 1812. The War of 1812 united French-speaking and English-speaking Canadians, First Peoples, and the British against a common foe. The victory gained through their successful joint defence helped lay the foundations for modern Canada. This virtual exhibition highlights some of the rare portraits and archival documents presented in the exhibition Faces of 1812 on display at the Canadian War Museum, in conjunction with the Museum’s own major exhibition, 1812. Both exhibitions will be shown from June 13, 2012 to January 6, 2013. This virtual exhibition also includes additional works that highlight the War of 1812 as a rich and continuing source of artistic inspiration, commemoration, and reflection.

The Beaver, Canada’s National Symbol now on Flickr

29 Jun 2012 18:32:48 GMT

Gatineau, June 29, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images depicting one of Canada’s national symbols, the beaver, is now available on Flickr. We are pleased to share a selection of images of one of our country’s beloved national symbols, the Canadian beaver to celebrate Canada Day this July 1st. Discover LAC images at Flickr.com, where you can comment on, tag and share content.

Release of silent film on YouTube

29 Jun 2012 15:00:25 GMT

Gatineau, June 29, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce the release of a heritage film on its YouTube channel. The silent film The Tide of Immigration is part of our heritage and the Canadian National Pictorial Series. The film is a compilation of various newsreels, produced from 1919 to 1921, depicting the lives of immigrants in Canada. Please stay tuned! We will release more films on YouTube as part of our ongoing commitment to providing Canadians with quick and easy access to their documentary heritage. For more information on the Film and Broadcasting collection at Library and Archives Canada, visit Discover the Collection: Film and Broadcasting.

Robert Laird Borden images now on Flickr

28 Jun 2012 15:54:24 GMT

Gatineau, June 28, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images depicting Canada’s eighth Prime Minister, Robert Laird Borden, is now available on Flickr. Sir Robert Borden was born in Grand Pré, Nova Scotia in 1854. After teaching for a number of years, Borden articled at a Halifax law firm and was called to the Nova Scotia Bar in 1878. He entered politics in 1896 and became the Conservative party leader in 1901. He spent the next 10 years as Leader of the Opposition before becoming Prime Minister in 1911. To learn more about Robert Laird Borden, visit the Dictionary of Canadian Biography Online. Discover LAC images at Flickr.com, where you can comment on, tag and share content.

A new finding aid: Veterans Death Cards: First World War

27 Jun 2012 16:00:14 GMT

?A new finding aid, previously only available to LAC staff, can help you find a veteran's First World War personnel file:

Library and Archives Canada releases third podcast episode

26 Jun 2012 15:39:21 GMT

Gatineau, June 22, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce the release of our latest podcast episode: The Shamrock and the Fleur-de-Lys. In this episode, we consult a panel of experts about the massive immigration of Irish settlers to Quebec in the 1800s. We examine the journey they made in order to establish their new lives on foreign soil, as well as the cultural bond that formed between the Irish and the Québécois. Subscribe to episodes using RSS or iTunes, or just tune in at: Podcasts – Discover Library and Archives Canada: Your History, Your Documentary Heritage.

National Film Board collection images now on Flickr

21 Jun 2012 21:37:43 GMT

Gatineau, Quebec, June 21, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images depicting First Nations and Inuit is now available on Flickr. These 24 photographs were selected from the National Film Board (NFB) collection because they were representative of it, both stylistically and thematically. Of these 24 images, few of the subjects have been identified by name. By making these photographs available online, LAC hopes that you will recognize any family members or friends. If you are able to identify any individuals or provide contextual information regarding any image, please Contact Us. The NFB collection includes photographs as well as films and videos. The photographs in the NFB collection are taken from the NFB’s Still Photography Division and date from 1941 to 1984. More images are available on the LAC website and can be found by using the Archives Search. The reference number for this collection is R1196-14-7-E (formerly Accession 1971-271). Discover other LAC images at Flickr.com, where you can comment on, tag and share content.

Library and Archives Canada launches Wahkotowin - Aboriginal Imprints in Canadian Heritage online toolkit

21 Jun 2012 19:59:07 GMT

Gatineau, Quebec, June 21, 2012 - Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is launching the online toolkit Wahkotowin—Aboriginal Imprints in Canadian Heritage, on the new Aboriginal Heritage portal. The launch of Wahkotowin - Aboriginal Imprints in Canadian Heritage reflects LAC’s modernized approach to content development and delivery. The toolkit gives access to the significant stories of numerous Aboriginal individuals and communities across Canada. Wahkotowin is a Cree-Michif term that embodies the notion of “kinship” in the context of identity, relationships and shared histories. The new toolkit streamlines digital content from LAC’s databases, virtual exhibitions and digitized resources through a single portal. First Nations, Métis and Inuit continue to participate in defining Canada as a nation. Aboriginal documentary heritage found in LAC’s holdings reflects the exemplary contributions of Aboriginal peoples to Canada’s political, social, economic and cultural development. This first toolkit introduces the Métis, one of three Aboriginal groups in Canada, and Louis Riel, one of Canada’s most talked about and controversial figures. Through Wahkotowin, you can follow the lives of Aboriginal people, places and events, and connect to our shared history, culture, heritage and identity.

Arthur Meighen images now on Flickr

15 Jun 2012 20:40:00 GMT

Gatineau, June 15, 2012—Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images depicting the 9th Prime Minister of Canada Arthur Meighen is now available on Flickr. Arthur Meighen was born in Anderson, Ontario on June 16, 1874. Running as a candidate for the Conservatives in Portage la Prairie, Meighen was elected to the House of Commons in 1908. In 1920, Arthur Meighen became leader of the Conservatives and Prime Minister of Canada until 1921. Arthur Meighen became again Prime Minister again in 1926 but only for four days. Meighen retired in 1927 and was appointed to the Senate in 1932.

Launch of the 2012 TD Summer Reading Club

15 Jun 2012 20:38:39 GMT

On June 13th, 2012, TD Bank Group, with partner Toronto Public Library and Library and Archives Canada, kicked off the annual TD Summer Reading Club across Canada in an effort to help children build and maintain strong reading skills throughout the summer months. With this year’s theme of Imagine, The TD Summer Reading Club is encouraging parents and children to let their creativity run wild as they explore the world of reading at more than 1900 local participating public libraries across Canada. "Reading can transport children to a world where magic happens and their imaginations are set free," said Dr. Daniel J. Caron, Deputy Head and Librarian and Archivist of Canada. “We encourage young readers to discover the fun that can be found in the pages of a book this summer.” Find out more about the TD Summer Reading Club.

Major interruption of LAC computing services on June 16, 2012

11 Jun 2012 20:26:46 GMT

?On Saturday, June 16, 2012, from 6 a.m. to noon (EDT), a major interruption of computing services will affect clients of Library and Archives Canada (LAC). During this period, the following services will be unavailable: All LAC Websites All LAC applications (Library Search, Archives Search, etc.) Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Release of New Orientation Video

11 Jun 2012 19:36:50 GMT

Gatineau, June 11, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce the release of its new orientation video. This video is the second in a series of tutorials that provide useful tips and recommend tools to help you discover and access archival records, genealogical resources and published materials at LAC. The tutorial series is just one of a number of LAC modernization initiatives that focus on providing you with quick and useful information about our services. Learn where and how to begin your research at Library and Archives Canada by watching this short orientation video: Orientation Services for Clients at 395 Wellington.

D-Day images now on Flickr

6 Jun 2012 22:24:24 GMT

Gatineau, June 6, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images depicting D-Day is now available on Flickr. On June 6, 1944—known as D-Day—Allied forces attacked German strong points on the beaches of Normandy, France. Canadians were among the first of the forces to land and fight inland from their landing area called Juno Beach, where they faced fortifications, such as mines, razor wire, artillery and pillboxes. Despite gruelling combat conditions and losses, Canadian and Allied forces succeeded to push past Normandy into northern France on towards Belgium and Holland. Fighting would last for almost another year into May 1945, as Allied forces advanced into Germany and eventually forced the German High Command to surrender. Discover LAC images at Flickr.com, where you can comment on, tag and share content.

Library and Archives Canada Launches Its Portrait Portal

30 May 2012 17:47:41 GMT

Gatineau, Quebec, May 30, 2012 – Today, Library and Archives Canada (LAC) launches its online Portrait Portal, making available more than nearly 15,000 high-quality digitized images from the national portrait collection. “I would like to invite Canadians, wherever they live, to visit the Portrait Portal and experience the thousands of works of art that tell our stories and help define our Canadian identity,” said the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages. “This digital approach allows greater access to our national documentary heritage.” The Portrait Portal showcases the largest collection of portraits in the country, which includes works acquired since the 1880s. This collection is comprised of paintings, drawings, prints, photographs, caricatures, medals and other works representing historical figures who played an important role in Canada's development as a nation. “This digitization initiative now makes available to Canadians across the country many thousands of works by renowned Canadian artists, ranging from portraits made by Yousuf Karsh to those of William Topley,” said Deputy Head and Librarian and Archivist of Canada, Daniel J. Caron. “Hockey fans can even find rare hockey cards, circa 1910, from the C.J. Haynes collection.” In addition, many works by Arnaud Maggs are now accessible on the Portrait Portal. The National Gallery of Canada is currently holding an exhibition that features this internationally acclaimed photographer’s works, some of which LAC has supplied from its collection. “The Portrait Portal gives Canadians the ability to access their national portrait collection at the time and place they want, wherever they are. For millions of people across the country, this will also be an exciting first step in their discovery of the wealth and diversity of LAC’s documentary heritage holdings,” concluded Daniel J. Caron. Looking to the future, LAC is committed to posting 2,000 digitized portraits every month for the coming years. This project illustrates LAC’s commitment to adapting to the new digital environment by making the national portrait collection more accessible to all Canadians from coast to coast. Explore the online resources of the Portrait Portal.

Queen Victoria images now on Flickr

23 May 2012 17:59:25 GMT

Queen Victoria images now on Flickr Page Content Gatineau, May 18, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images depicting Queen Victoria is now available on Flickr. During the mid-1840s, Queen Victoria’s birthday was celebrated as a holiday in Canada West on the 24th of May. It became closely associated with Empire Days through the 1890s, and was adopted by Parliament in 1901 as a national day of celebration. Victoria Day is now a Canadian federal holiday. Since 1952, it has been observed on the last Monday before May 25. Discover LAC images at Flickr.com, where you can comment on, tag and share content.

Victory in Europe Day images now on Flickr

23 May 2012 17:58:50 GMT

Gatineau, May 17, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images depicting Victory in Europe Day celebrations is now available on Flickr. After six years of conflict, the Second World War in Europe came to an end when Germany surrendered unconditionally to Allied Forces. The formal ratification of the German Instrument of Surrender was signed in Berlin on May 8, 1945 by military representatives from the German High Command, the Supreme Command Allied Expeditionary Force, the Soviet High Command and the First French Army. As news of the official surrender spread, celebrations and religious services giving thanks commenced in cities across Canada, the United States, Britain and Europe. The long years of tension, rationing and fighting culminated in an outpouring of relief and emotion. Though the threat of Nazi Germany was over, the war with Japan was still in progress. It would be some time yet before the close of the Second World War was in sight. Discover LAC images at Flickr.com, where you can comment on, tag and share content.

Guide for Residential Schools Research Now Available Online

14 May 2012 16:52:50 GMT

Ottawa, May 14, 2012 Library and Archives Canada is pleased to announce that Conducting Research on Residential Schools: A Guide to the Records of the Indian and Inuit Affairs Program and Related Resources at Library and Archives Canada is now available online. The guide explains how to find and consult the records that are available in LAC’s collections about Indian residential schools, with a focus on records created by the Department of Indian Affairs (RG 10 / R216). The guide also identifies types of archival records created about residential schools by federal departments, gives search techniques for finding these records, and explains how to access them. It also lists finding aids that are useful for residential schools research, non-governmental records in LAC’s collections with information about the schools, and websites and other sources of information about the residential school system and its legacy.

New digitized reels: War of 1812 Records

8 May 2012 21:01:03 GMT

Gatineau, May 8, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada is pleased to announce that you can now access 73,000 new images of War of 1812 records on its website. Library and Archives Canada holds a unique and vast collection of records about the Canadian men and women who were involved in the War of 1812. Muster rolls, paylists, claims, certificates of service, medal registers, maps, paintings, and published sources are featured in LAC holdings that document this key event. With these images now online, you have easy access to records for: Board of Claims for War of 1812 losses, 1813–1848, Series RG19 E5A Lower Canada militia nominal rolls and paylists, Series RG9 1A7 Upper Canada militia returns, nominal rolls, and paylists, Series RG9 1B7 Discover these valuable resources and other miscellaneous records for the War of 1812 with the Microform Digitization research tool. This tool allows you to browse these records page by page.

Interruption of Amicus services from May 4 to 6

4 May 2012 16:25:16 GMT

On Friday, May 4, 2012, from 4 p.m. to Sunday, May 6, 2012, at 6 p.m. (EDT), there will be an interruption of services that will affect clients of Library and Archives Canada. During this period, the following services will be unavailable: All Amicus sites Library Search Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Library and Archives Canada Launches Its Immigration Heritage Online Kits

3 May 2012 20:32:41 GMT

Gatineau, Quebec, May 3, 2012—Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is releasing immigration heritage online kits today at the TD National Reading Summit III: A Reading Canada—Building a Plan, in Vancouver. At the event, Fabien Lengellé, Director General of the Services Branch at LAC, presented the content of the kits and how they relate to the TD National Reading Summit themes of literacy and citizenship. “LAC is well positioned to partner on programs that support literacy and increased access to the country’s documentary heritage. Both elements help to build a solid foundation that allows for active citizenship to take root,” said Lengellé. Relating to the Chinese, Japanese and East Indian communities, the kits presented at the launch are the first three of 24 that will be released this year. Each kit includes lists of digital resources for a specific ethno-cultural group, allowing users to access photographs, works of art, texts, music and all other material available for that respective group. In addition, these kits will enable users to search numerous LAC databases and catalogues to find more information to complete their research on ethno-cultural groups of interest. Access to countless rich and varied holdings is just a click away via the online kits. These new tools illustrate LAC’s commitment to providing Canadians with quick and easy access to their online documentary heritage. Find out more by browsing the different immigration heritage kits on LAC’s website.

Guide to Sources Relating to Units of the Canadian Expeditionary Force is now available online

2 May 2012 20:50:12 GMT

Gatineau, May 2, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada is pleased to announce the launch of the Guide to Sources Relating to Units of the Canadian Expeditionary Force. The guide is an indispensable starting point for researching the records that document Canada's participation in the First World War. It is a unique finding aid that brings together references to records and files scattered throughout several different archival fonds, which relate to almost every unit in the CEF. The Guide was originally developed over many years by Barbara Wilson, an archivist with the former National Archives of Canada, now Library and Archives Canada. The guide has subsequently been updated with more recent acquisitions from official records, private papers and diaries, and by many other contributors from Library and Archives Canada. The guide was reviewed and updated with references to the Ministry of Militia and Defence records and daily orders, which are described by Library and Archives Canada as Record Group 9 or RG9. Consult the Guide to Sources Relating to Units of the Canadian Expeditionary Force on the LAC website.

May Day images now on Flickr

1 May 2012 21:03:23 GMT

Gatineau, May 1, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images depicting May Day celebrations is now available on Flickr. The first of May is observed in Canada, the United States and parts of Western Europe to celebrate the coming of spring. A variety of customs, such as maypole dancing, garland making, and the crowning of a May Queen at community events are still practiced today. This date is also known as International Workers’ Day in honor of labourers and labour organizations. Discover LAC images at Flickr.com, where you can comment on, tag and share content. For more information, please contact webservices@bac-lac.gc.ca.

Lester Bowles Pearson images now on Flickr

25 Apr 2012 15:41:04 GMT

Gatineau, April 24, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images featuring Canada’s 14th Prime Minister, Lester Bowles Pearson, is now available on Flickr. Lester Bowles Pearson was born in Newton Brook (Toronto), Ontario in 1897. During the First World War, he served as a medical orderly in Greece and then started training as a pilot in England. However, he was struck by a bus during a black out and was sent back to Canada in 1918. He studied at the University of Toronto and at Oxford University before joining the Canadian foreign service in 1927. Pearson’s diplomatic career spanned 23 years. He served as the first secretary at the Canadian High Commission in Britain from 1935 to 1941; and then moved to the Canadian Embassy in Washington in 1942. Three years later, he served as the Canadian Ambassador to the United States, attending the conference which founded the United Nations in 1945. Pearson began his political career as a Cabinet Minister for External Affairs under Prime Minister Louis St. Laurent. In 1956, Pearson recommended to the United Nations that an international peacekeeping force supervise the withdrawal of British, French and Egyptian forces from the Suez Canal. Canada acted as one of the supervisory forces. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1957 for these efforts that averted another global conflict. In 1958, Pearson succeeded Louis St. Laurent as leader of the Liberal Party and was elected Prime Minister in 1963. He retired from politics in 1968 and returned to the academic world. Pearson died in 1972. Discover LAC images at Flickr.com, where you can comment on, tag and share content.

LAC wraps up its crowdsourcing photography digitization pilot project

25 Apr 2012 15:39:56 GMT

Library and Archives Canada (LAC) would like to thank those who took part in the digital photography pilot project, Crowdsourcing Digitization. Fifteen people participated in this pilot and provided us with 20,000 images from LAC holdings which have been made available online. LAC clients who participated included: Ross Barclay James Busby Lindsay Drumond Lois Fenton Clare Glassco Kathy Grant John Krug Glenn Wright Although this phase of the project has now ended, LAC will be pursuing other crowdsourcing opportunities in the future. Other projects to digitize items from the LAC collection are also ongoing. The tripod and related equipment (sandbags, etc.) will remain available for loan to LAC clients. For information on borrowing this equipment, please visit the staff in the Textual Documents Consultation Room on the third floor at 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa or contact our services centre at 613-995-3991.

Major interruption of LAC computing services April 21, 2012

17 Apr 2012 18:22:32 GMT

On Saturday, April 21, 2012, from 6 a.m. to noon (EDT), a major interruption of computing services will affect clients of Library and Archives Canada (LAC). During this period, the following services will be unavailable: All LAC Websites All LAC's applications (Library Search, Archives Search, etc.) Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Titanic images now on Flickr

13 Apr 2012 17:08:51 GMT

Gatineau, April 13, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images documenting the sinking of the Titanic is now available on Flickr. The largest ship of its kind at the time, the Titanic set sail on April 10, 1912, with 2,227 passengers and crew on its maiden voyage from Southampton, England, to New York City. Despite numerous iceberg warnings, the Titanic sailed into an ice field 590 kilometres (364 miles) off the coast of Newfoundland and struck an iceberg on the evening of April 14, 1912. The vessel’s crew sent out a distress call at 10:35 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time), and in less than three hours the “unsinkable” Titanic had foundered. As a result of a shortage of lifeboats on board, the tragic collision claimed over 1,500 lives. Canadian vessels recovered 328 bodies, of which 116 were buried at sea; another 59 were shipped home for burial; and 150 were interred in three cemeteries in Halifax. The remaining victims sank with the ship or drifted away with the currents.

Vimy Ridge images now on Flickr

11 Apr 2012 21:56:49 GMT

Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images featuring Canadian soldiers of the First World War at Vimy Ridge is now available on Flickr. Since October 1914, German troops had held their position at Vimy and had heavily fortified their lines. The British and the French made several attempts to take Vimy, which resulted in over 100,000 casualties. The German troops suffered from increasingly heavy artillery bombardment that began on March 20, 1917 and continued for over three weeks. On April 9, 1917, supported by a creeping artillery barrage, four Canadian Divisions attacked Vimy Ridge. The troops moved uphill across difficult terrain. The advance went so well, the Canadians were able to overtake many German trenches before enemy soldiers could emerge from the shelter of their dugouts. It took three more days for the Canadians to capture the last objective, known as the Pimple. Despite the rapid progress, there were heavy troop casualties caused by German shellfire, snipers and bayonet fighting. The Battle of Vimy Ridge was a great tactical success.

Release of Library and Archives Canada's latest podcast episode

28 Mar 2012 20:46:54 GMT

Gatineau, March 28, 2012 - Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce the release of the latest podcast episode: The Lest We Forget Project. Since 2001, Library and Archives Canada has been supporting the Lest We Forget Project, connecting youth to Canada's history by making military personnel files available, both in person and online. This month we'll introduce you to the project (which has experienced a pan-Canadian expansion over the past two years), highlight LAC's digitization efforts, and explain how teachers, students and Canadians alike can participate.

New digitized reels: border entry records, 1908-1918 and 1925-1935

23 Mar 2012 20:46:56 GMT

Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that you can now access 121,302 new images of immigration records on our website. Before 1908, people were able to move freely across the border from the United States into Canada. Beginning in that year, entry ports were established along the border. From 1908 to 1918, and from 1925 to 1935, border entry records were compiled in a list format to record the names of immigrants. By providing these images online, LAC is now offering all immigration records containing nominal information for immigrants from 1865 to 1935 in its custody. Discover these valuable resources with the Microform Digitization research tool, which allows you to browse, page by page, the border entry records.

Release of New Video Tutorial

22 Mar 2012 19:40:43 GMT

Gatineau, March 22, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce the release of our new video tutorial, How to Begin Your Search Online. This video is the first in a series of tutorials that provides useful tips and recommends tools to help you discover and access archival records, genealogical resources and published materials at LAC. The tutorial series is just one of a number of LAC modernization initiatives that focuses on providing you with quick and useful information about our services.

Major interruption of LAC computing services March 17, 2012

14 Mar 2012 21:32:53 GMT

On Saturday March 17, 2012 from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m., a major interruption of Library and Archives Canada's (LAC) computing services will affect clients of LAC. During this period, the following services will be unavailable: All LAC Websites All LAC's applications (Library Search, Archives Search, etc.) Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

The War of 1812 at Library and Archives Canada

14 Mar 2012 19:23:43 GMT

To commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812, LAC is unveiling a series of projects about this important chapter in Canadian history.

Prime Minister John Joseph Caldwell Abbott images now on Flickr

13 Mar 2012 20:00:27 GMT

Gatineau, March 12, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images featuring the Honourable John Joseph Caldwell Abbott is now available on Flickr. Abbott served as Canada’s Prime Minister between 1891 and 1892.

Major interruption of LAC computing services March 10, 2012

9 Mar 2012 21:33:46 GMT

On Saturday March 10, 2012 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., a major interruption of Library and Archives Canada's (LAC) computing services will affect clients of LAC. During this period, the following services will be unavailable: All Amicus services Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Revised version of Aboriginal Peoples: Guide to the Records of the Government of Canada

1 Mar 2012 21:01:11 GMT

March 1, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada is pleased to announce that the revised version of Aboriginal Peoples: Guide to the Records of the Government of Canada is now available. Originally released in 1996, the revised online guide includes updated instructions on how to locate records from the Department of Indian Affairs (RG10 / R216) and the Department of the Interior (RG15 / R190) in Archives Search. The guide also explains how to search by finding aid number in Archives Search. For more information, please contact webservices@bac-lac.gc.ca.

February 25, 2012 -- IMPORTANT NOTICE -- Building Closure

24 Feb 2012 20:34:52 GMT

Building Closure IMPORTANT NOTICE Please note that the building located at 395 Wellington Street, in Ottawa, will be closed Saturday February 25 at 6 am to 6 am the next day, due to major electrical maintenance work performed by Public Works and Government Services Canada. During this period no service is offered and all events are cancelled in this building. Library and Archives Canada apologizes for any inconvenience caused by this temporary closure.

Louis Riel images now on Flickr

21 Feb 2012 20:42:12 GMT

Gatineau, January 20, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images featuring Louis Riel, 1844–1885, is now available on Flickr.

Launch of the Library and Archives Canada podcast series

8 Feb 2012 23:16:59 GMT

Gatineau, February 8, 2012 — Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce the release of the new podcast series, Discover Library and Archives Canada: Your History, Your Documentary Heritage

Portraits on the Ice Returns to the Rideau Canal Skateway for a Fifth Year -- Ten portraits now on display under the Bank Street Bridge

6 Feb 2012 15:26:03 GMT

Ottawa, Ontario, February 3, 2012 – Library and Archives Canada is marking the War of 1812 Bicentennial with Portraits on the Ice, an exhibition on the Rideau Canal Skateway.

LAC begins implementation of new approach to service delivery

1 Feb 2012 19:30:30 GMT

Starting on February 13, 2012, Library and Archives Canada (LAC) will begin the phased implementation of its new approach to service delivery.

Information technologies have modified how the vast majority of Canadians find and use information. Memory institutions like LAC must adapt to this new environment to remain relevant to as many Canadians as possible...

Prime Minister Alexander Mackenzie images now on Flickr

27 Jan 2012 18:04:24 GMT

Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that a new set of images featuring the Honourable Alexander Mackenzie is now available on Flickr at: www.flickr.com/photos/lac-bac/sets/72157628147289615/.

Mackenzie was born in Logierait, Perthshire, Scotland, on January 28, 1822. At the age of 13, after his father’s death, he left school to help support his family. To compensate for his lack of formal learning, he devoted much of his adult life to the independent study of literature, history, science, philosophy and politics. In 1842, he immigrated to Canada to be with his future wife, Helen Neil.

The ambitious Mackenzie became leader of the Liberal Party (formerly the Reform Party) in 1873. In the same year, the Liberals informed the press of scandalous dealings between the Conservative Party and the contractors building the Canadian Pacific Railway. Soon after, the Conservatives were defeated in a general election and Mackenzie became Canada’s second prime minister, holding office from 1873 to 1878.

Other LAC image sets on Flickr document the contributions of Canadians who served in the First World War, Irish immigration to Canada, and immigration and quarantine facilities at Grosse Île. These images showcase different periods in Canadian history, which have shaped the multicultural and modern Canada we know today.

Discover LAC images at Flickr.com, where you can comment on, tag and share content.

Upper Canada Land Petitions Update

12 Jan 2012 19:50:07 GMT

The database is available at: www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/databases/upper-canada-land/index-e.html

Furthermore, Library and Archives Canada is pleased to announce the addition of the digitized images of the Upper Canada land petitions from 326 microfilm reels, representing 357,831 new images to its website. Through the “microform digitization” research tool, users can browse the microfilm reels page by page. The tool is available at: www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/microform-digitization/index-e.html.

Canadiana Preservation Collection of published materials closed until 2013

12 Jan 2012 19:49:11 GMT

The Preservation Collection was created in 1988. It comprises original copies of all Canadian published materials held by Library and Archives Canada (LAC). This collection will be preserved for as long as practically possible through restricted access and the use of appropriate preservation measures such as deacidification and separate housing under special environmental conditions.

The Preservation Collection is now being prepared for storage in a new collection storage facility scheduled to open in 2013. Until that time, the Preservation Collection will be closed.

New Flickr Image Set: Sir John A. Macdonald: Canada’s Patriot Statesman

12 Jan 2012 16:49:11 GMT

For Canadians, few names conjure up grander images of our shared past than Sir John A. Macdonald. A resolute architect of Confederation, Macdonald was a complex and passionate individual who played an epic role in Canada’s history and remains today the country’s most important political figure.

New Flickr Image Set: Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King; 1921-1926, 1926-1930, 1935-1948

15 Dec 2011 20:05:02 GMT

The set features images of William Lyon Mackenzie King. He served three terms as Canada’s Prime Minister www.flickr.com/photos/lac-bac/sets/72157627944951688/ between 1921 to 1948. It is available at the following address:

William Lyon Mackenzie King was born in Berlin (later renamed Kitchener), Ontario on December 17, 1874. The son of a prominent lawyer, and descendent of William Lyon Mackenzie leader of the 1837 Rebellion in Upper Canada, set him on a path towards civil service and eventually politics. His skills as a labour consultant and politician led him to become the leader of the Liberal Party in 1919.

New Flickr Image Set: Rosemary Gilliat fonds

15 Dec 2011 20:01:26 GMT

The set features pictures from 1956-1961 during Rosemary Gilliat’s travels in Northern Canada. It is available at the following address: www.flickr.com/photos/lac-bac/sets/72157628135696830/

These photos are part of the expansion of Project Naming and provide a sample of images from Aklavik [Northwest Territories]; Cape Dorset and Iqaluit [Nunavut]; and the Ungava Bay region of Northern Quebec.

New digitized content available via the Microform Digitization application

12 Dec 2011 16:44:37 GMT

Over 127,000 new images available for:

See the full list of available series.

Hint: Each series is different and has its own search strategy, so consult the "Help" file for useful information.

Major interruption of LAC computing services November 19, 2011

17 Nov 2011 19:56:11 GMT

On Saturday November 19, 2011 from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., a major interruption of its computing services will affect clients of Library and Archives Canada (LAC). During this period, the following services will be unavailable:

All LAC Websites
All LAC's applications (Library Search, Archives Search, etc.)

Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Remarks Prepared For the 2011 Canadian Bar Association Privacy Law Conference And 7th International Conference of Information Commissioners

9 Nov 2011 18:25:58 GMT

Library and Archives Canada, Canadian Urban Libraries Council, and Canadian War Museum expand collaboration for the delivery of Lest We Forget workshops

9 Nov 2011 17:21:54 GMT

Library and Archives Canada (LAC), the Canadian Urban Libraries Council and the Canadian War Museum are contributing to Remembrance Week commemorations by announcing, at the Halifax Public Libraries, an expanded collaborative agreement for the delivery of Lest We Forget workshops across Canada...

Guidelines for Physical Digital Storage Media, Version 1.0

9 Nov 2011 16:05:27 GMT

Canadian memory institutions are interested in participating in the development of a broad national preservation network, and in contributing to networks in areas of special interest such as digital preservation. There exist opportunities to develop and share policies, practices and standards in common with other institutions for mutual benefit. These guidelines result from one such cooperative effort between Archives of Ontario, Library and Archives Canada and Saskatchewan Archives Board...

Also available in PDF format.

Updated: Canada at War: A Guide to Library and Archives Canada's Websites Recalling the Canadian War Experience

8 Nov 2011 17:16:29 GMT

This site will lead you to the many resources available on our website, exploring Canada's contribution to military and peacekeeping operations at home and around the world. Each of the links contained in this website will lead you to a virtual exhibition or a database of primary documents.

Launch of Royal Canadian Navy Ledger Sheets Database (1910-1941)

3 Nov 2011 18:09:11 GMT

Library and Archives Canada is pleased to announce the launch of a new online database, Royal Canadian Navy Ledger Sheets (1910-1941).

Through this online database, researchers can access more than 16,700 references to individuals who served in the Royal Canadian Navy and the Naval Reserve between 1910 and 1918. It also includes some records for those who enlisted between 1919 and 1941.

Update - Second World War Service Files: Canadian Armed Forces War Dead

2 Nov 2011 18:26:20 GMT

Library and Archives Canada has started to add digitized copies of the Second World War service files to the database to make them more accessible, to help preserve the originals and to avoid copying the same file more than once.

For files not yet digitized, you can order photocopies or scanned images. The cost is the same. When a digital copy is requested, the file will be scanned and the digital images will be added to the database the next time it is reloaded. In this way, all Canadians can help contribute to the preservation of our country's military heritage.

Example of a digitized file: PHILLIPS, EDWIN (PDF 47,000 KB)

Canada’s cultural heritage more accessible to all through LAC

2 Nov 2011 14:33:36 GMT

Library and Archives Canada launches the Canadian Feature Film Index and recognizes UNESCO World Day for Audiovisual Heritage

27 Oct 2011 20:16:14 GMT

In order to mark the UNESCO World Day for Audiovisual Heritage, Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to launch the Canadian Feature Film Index database. This is one component of how LAC wishes to acknowledge this international day of recognition of audiovisual documents and their importance in society’s evolution...

Visit the War of 1812 Website

19 Oct 2011 19:41:50 GMT

Download the Official War of 1812 Application and Mobile Site

You can now access the official Government of Canada mobile application and mobile site for the commemoration of the War of 1812. The app and mobile site include information about the commemoration, key battles and heroes, related national historic sites. Also included are interactive features that will be updated in the lead-up to the official start of the 200th anniversary of the War, on June 18, 2012.

Major interruption of LAC computing services October 15, 2011

13 Oct 2011 20:58:20 GMT

On Saturday October 15, 2011 from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., a major interruption of Library and Archives Canada's (LAC) computing services will affect clients of LAC.
During this period, the following services will be unavailable:

All LAC Websites
All LAC applications (Library Search, Archives Search, etc.)

Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

New version of the Home Children database (1869-1930)

11 Oct 2011 18:14:46 GMT

Library and Archives Canada is pleased to announce the release of a new version of the online database Home Children (1869-1930). More than 20,000 names of children, who came to Canada between 1925 and 1932, were added to the extended version. The names were extracted from passengers lists held at Library and Archives Canada.

Use of Public Space at 395 Wellington Street

30 Sep 2011 19:27:35 GMT

September 30, 2011

Use of Public Space at 395 Wellington Street

In order to align the use of special purpose spaces at 395 Wellington Street with government-wide practices, effective January 1, 2012, Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC) will assume responsibility for the use of these spaces on the ground floor. These spaces include the Auditorium, the Auditorium Foyer, the Main Entrance Lobby, Room 154 and Room 156. All existing bookings made by Library and Archives Canada for 2011 will be honoured.

For further information, please write to PWGSC at Biensimmobiliers.RealProperty@tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca.

Library and Archives Canada digitizes past issues of the Canada Gazette (1841-1997)

26 Sep 2011 20:53:17 GMT

Major interruption of LAC computing services September 17, 2011

15 Sep 2011 20:39:54 GMT

On Saturday September 17, 2011 from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., a major interruption of Library and Archives Canada's (LAC) computing services will affect clients of LAC. During this period, the following services will be unavailable:

All LAC Websites
All LAC's applications (Library Search, Archives Search, etc.)

Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

New Thematic Guide - Paris Office Card Index

13 Sep 2011 19:42:23 GMT

Employees working in the Paris Office of Library and Archives Canada (LAC, then the Public Archives of Canada) created and added to the Paris Office Card Index (POCI) during the period from 1905 to 1950. The employees used the POCI to keep track of the documents of Canadian interest that they found in various French archives and transcribed. Transcribing constituted a means of creating copies before the use of microfilm.

The cards in the POCI constitute a chronological list of transcribed documents of Canadian interest in France. The POCI is organized by date of creation of the documents and spans the period from 1439 to 1897. Most of the cards, however, refer to documents created during the period from 1650 to 1765. A small alphabetical index accompanies the POCI...

Launch of Census of Canada, 1871

30 Aug 2011 20:54:19 GMT

The 1871 census marked the first regularly scheduled collection of national statistics, and Library and Archives Canada is now pleased to make its results available online. Researchers can access digitized images of original census returns featuring the name, age, country or province of birth, nationality, religion, and occupation of Canada's residents at the time...

Library and Archives Canada: Quarterly Financial Report for the Quarter ended June 30th, 2011

29 Aug 2011 21:02:53 GMT

Services Advisory Board

29 Aug 2011 21:01:22 GMT

At the final meeting with members of the Services Advisory Board in 2010, Library and Archives Canada (LAC) committed to developing its advisory approach during 2011. The new approach will provide LAC with an ongoing capacity to address the diverse service needs of clients...

Proactive Disclosure initiative at Library and Archives Canada

20 Jul 2011 19:34:58 GMT

Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is proactively developing monthly summaries of completed Access to Information requests concerning LAC's own operational records as well as the Government of Canada's records of historical significance under LAC's custody and control. This information will be featured on LAC's website, in the Proactive Disclosure section (www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/disclosure/atip/index-e.html)...

Microform Digitization: New digitized reels - British Military and Naval Records (RG 8, C Series) - DOCUMENTS

7 Jul 2011 20:17:21 GMT

Important Notice - Power Failure

6 Jul 2011 04:13:13 GMT

On Tuesday, July 5, 2011, a major power failure affecting Library and Archives Canada (LAC)’s computer servers made it impossible to provide most departmental services, including its website. This situation affected all of LAC’s facilities, including those in Gatineau, Ottawa and the Regional Service Centres across Canada.

All services are expected to be back to normal for the start of the business on Wednesday, July 6.

The management of LAC deeply regrets any inconvenience caused by this situation and expresses its thanks to clients for their understanding.

Canadian Feature Film Database

27 Jun 2011 21:46:26 GMT

The Canadian Feature Film Database is based on the printed Index (Canadian Feature Film Index) begun in 1972.

compiles the principal credits of every Canadian feature film from 1913 to 2009
establishes a list of Canadian feature films from published information up to 2009
features currently over 4,300 films

New LAC images on Flickr: Nitrate Film Preservation Centre

22 Jun 2011 21:36:05 GMT

Library and Archives Canada Marks the Opening of the New Nitrate Film Preservation Centre

21 Jun 2011 20:21:59 GMT

Library and Archives Canada today marked the official opening of the new Nitrate Film Preservation Centre in the west end of Ottawa.

The Centre, located on the Communications Research Centre Canada campus, was constructed on time and within budget, resulting in measurable long-term benefits and savings. The "state-of-the-art" facility features a range of technical innovations that meet the current standards for preservation environments and provide the required fire prevention and protection measures. The facility is also equipped with small individual vaults, specialized monitoring and an exterior buffer zone of land for added security...

Speech by Daniel J. Caron to commemorate the official opening of the Library and Archives Canada Nitrate Film Preservation Facility

21 Jun 2011 20:21:11 GMT

Government of Canada Core Subject Thesaurus in SKOS/RDF format

17 Jun 2011 18:22:36 GMT

Library and Archives Canada: 2011-2012 Report on Plans and Priorities

16 Jun 2011 22:43:46 GMT

Major interruption of LAC computing services on Saturday June 18, 2011

16 Jun 2011 22:41:26 GMT

On Saturday June 18, 2011 from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., a major interruption of Library and Archives Canada's (LAC) computing services will affect clients of LAC. During this period, the following services will be unavailable:

All LAC Websites
All LAC's applications (Library Search, Archives Search, etc.)

Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

New Version of the Lower Canada Land Petitions (1626-1865) Database

14 Jun 2011 16:32:31 GMT

Ottawa, June 8, 2011 - Library and Archives Canada is pleased to announce the release of a new version of the online database Lower Canada Land Petitions (1626-1865). This version includes digitized images of the actual petitions for all individuals listed in the database. Corrections to entries, including suggestions received from users, have also been integrated into this updated version. Many staff members contributed to the success of this project, and their efforts are much appreciated.

Nanisiniq: Arviat History Project - budding Inuit scholars come to Library and Archives Canada for a visit

3 Jun 2011 14:47:32 GMT

Parts of the collection will be temporarily inaccessible for variable periods of time

3 Jun 2011 14:46:24 GMT

Please be advised that certain holdings (books, periodicals, audiovisual material, etc.) currently found at the Library and Archives Canada (LAC) facility at 395 Wellington Street in Ottawa have been or will be temporarily moved to off-site premises, rendering them inaccessible for variable periods of time...

LAC's New Digitization Project - By the Public, for the Public

25 Mar 2011 15:30:52 GMT

Library and Archives Canada needs your help! We are testing a new digitization process and creating a searchable online database of public documents. We have the equipment; we have the documents; now all we need is you! If you plan to visit 395 Wellington Street, in Ottawa, to consult and to photograph documents, please come by our new space and join the project...

Open Data from Library and Archives Canada

22 Mar 2011 19:38:42 GMT

Library and Archives Canada (LAC) has been invited to join a Government of Canada (GC) initiative on open data, which will provide all Canadians with access to GC datasets and associated metadata in the public domain. As part of this initiative, LAC is releasing two datasets for the launch of this new website and will be developing a long-term plan for releasing more public domain datasets over the coming months.

Major interruption of LAC computing services March 19, 2011

17 Mar 2011 18:41:05 GMT

On Saturday March 19, 2011 from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., a major interruption of Library and Archives Canada's (LAC) computing services will affect clients of LAC. During this period, the following services will be unavailable:

All LAC Websites
All LAC's applications (Library Search, Archives Search, etc.)

Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Microform Digitization: New digitized reels - British Military and Naval Records (RG 8, “C” Series) 1757-1906

3 Mar 2011 15:33:36 GMT

From 1759 to 1871, the defense of Canada was primarily the responsibility of British military and naval forces. Therefore, the military authorities created different types of documents most of which are held at the National Archives in England in various War Office and Admiralty series. However, other records created in Canada remained here when the British Forces left in 1871. Library and Archives Canada holds many of those documents and they are regrouped into one major fonds, RG 8...

Use of Public Space at 395 Wellington Street

25 Feb 2011 16:52:55 GMT

Library and Archives Canada (LAC) allows organizations to hold their events at 395 Wellington Street. This is in addition to the use of the public space for LAC and other Government of Canada events.

For 2011, LAC is at full capacity and not accepting any new reservations. LAC is currently reviewing the use of public space at 395 Wellington Street. As such, LAC cannot accept reservations for 2012. An announcement as to the use of public space in 2012 will come later this year.

Story Swap

2 Jan 2011 15:50:49 GMT

February 3, 7:00 p.m.
Room 156, 395 Wellington, Ottawa ON
Free Admission

On the first Thursday of every month (12 months a year), the Ottawa StoryTellers host a story swap / open stage. Admission is free, and everyone is invited to come and tell a story and / or listen to the stories. Light refreshments are served during the break.

Information: ottawastorytellers.ca/storyswaps

Portraits on the Ice Returns to the Rideau Canal Skateway for a Fourth Year!

31 Jan 2011 20:48:11 GMT

2nd Annual Reach Lawyers Comedy Night

28 Jan 2011 20:45:50 GMT

February 1, 5:00 p.m.
2nd Annual Reach Lawyers Comedy Night
Auditorium, 395 Wellington, Ottawa ON
Admission: Visit www.reach.ca

Reach Canada’s Honorary Chair, The Honourable John D. Richard, former Chief Justice Federal Court of Appeal (ret’d) and Crystal Cyr Barristers invite you for an evening of fun and laughter. There will be the comedic presentations by local Judges and lawyers. The ever funny Mr. Justice Colin McKinnon, will be the Masters of Ceremony. There will be a short film produced and directed by the comical, Graham Murray of Foord Davies Murray.

Information: www.reach.ca / 613-236-6636

Black History Month

28 Jan 2011 20:44:03 GMT

January 31 to February 12
Black History Month
395 Wellington, Ottawa ON
Admission: Visit www.blackhistoryottawa.org

The Board of Directors of Black History Ottawa (BHO) and various community partners will hold events under the 2011 theme:Our Canadian Story: Guiding our Youth to Success. BHO will use the celebrations to highlight the need for adults in our community to provide leadership, support and guidance, and be positive role models that our youth can emulate in order to lead successful lives.

Information: www.blackhistoryottawa.org

Temporary closure of public services at 395 Wellington on February 6, 2011

28 Jan 2011 14:42:06 GMT

Visitors to the building on 395 Wellington Street in Ottawa are advised that on Sunday, February 6, the following rooms will be temporarily closed: reference, genealogy and consultation of textual documents. This is due to the screening of the documentary film Iranium by the Free Thinking Film Society. The rooms will re-open on Monday, February 7 as usual.

Black History Month: LAC honours the legacy of Black Canadians

27 Jan 2011 21:29:05 GMT

February is Black History Month, a time to recognize and honour the legacy of Black Canadians. To commemorate this occasion, Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is offering a Web portal of the online resources available on its website relating to Black History in Canada.

Story Swap

5 Jan 2011 17:05:25 GMT

January 6, 7:00 p.m.
Room 156, 395 Wellington
Free Admission

Information: ottawastorytellers.ca/storyswaps

Major interruption of LAC computing services December 18

17 Dec 2010 14:20:38 GMT

On Saturday December 18, 2010 from 6:00 am to 12:00 pm, a major interruption of LAC computing services will affect employees and clients of LAC. During this period, the following services will be unavailable:

All LAC internal and external Websites
All e-mail services
All of LAC's external applications (AMICUS, MIKAN, etc.)

Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

For Government of Canada Institutions - Changes in the Regional Service Centres

16 Dec 2010 17:57:27 GMT

Launch of "Census of the Prairie Provinces, 1916"

16 Dec 2010 17:55:20 GMT

Access to the digitized images of the 1916 Census is available online in two different ways:

Through a database that is searchable by Province, District Name, District Number, and Sub-district Number. The database is available at: www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/databases/census-1916/index-e.html
Through the research tool "Microform Digitization," you can browse the microfilm reels page by page. The tool is available at: www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/microform-digitization/index-e.html

Sauti Yetu (Our Voice)

1 Feb 2010 15:22:44 GMT

February 3, 7:30 pm
Sauti Yetu (Our Voice)
Auditorium, 395, Wellington, Ottawa ON
Admission: $15 in advance, $20 at the door.
Available at: Giraffe, 19 Clarence, 613-562-0284, Ottawa Folklore Centre, 1111 Bank, 613-730-2887, Tropics Hair Care, 381 Dalhousie, 613-241-3333, Mugena African Caribbean Foods Restaurant, 911 Richmond, 613-722-8228, Compact Music 785 & 190 Bank, 613-233-8922.

The AFRICAN HERITAGE CENTRE PRESENTS SAUTI YETU (OUR VOICE): A Black History Celebration of Diversity through traditional Dance Music, Belly Dance, Hip Hop, Drummers, Gospel & much more. Guest speaker will be the Honorable Madeleine Meilleur, Ontario Minister of Community & Social Services. Food and drinks around Africa will be provided by the Heritage Cafe & T ($)

Information: 613-860-3022 / africanheritage04@hotmail.com

Black History Month Launch & Opening Ceremony

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 18:46:28 GMT

For the period before 1865, a number of lists have been identified and indexed by name in this database, formerly known as our Miscellaneous Immigration Index. Many of the records relate to immigrants from the British Isles to Quebec and Ontario, but there are also references to settlers in other provinces. The database also includes other types of records such as declarations of aliens and names of some Irish orphans.

AMICUS / Library Search

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:36:56 GMT

This system will be unavailable from Friday February 5, 2010 9:00 pm to Saturday February 6, 2010 9:00 am (ET). Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Black History Month: LAC honours the legacy of Black Canadians

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:47:53 GMT

Upcoming move of part of the published material housed at 395 Wellington and at the Preservation Centre

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:46:25 GMT

Film: U.N. Me

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:43:07 GMT

January 25, 7:00 p.m.
U.N. Me
Auditorium, 395 Wellington St., Ottawa ON
Admission: $12

Join the Free Thinking Film Society for the film U.N. Me, a film about the UN. Ami Horowitz, the producer of the film, will be on hand to answer questions, and a reception will follow.

Information: www.freethinkingfilms.com

Symposium on Recordkeeping and Web 2.0

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 16:26:30 GMT

We are pleased to confirm that the Symposium on Recordkeeping and Web 2.0 will be held on Thursday, January 28, 2010. This event had been scheduled for October 29, 2009, but due to the Cliff Street Heating and Cooling Plant shutdown, it had been rescheduled until January 2010...

LAC Shares Images of Sir John A. Macdonald on Flickr

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 16:22:50 GMT

In recognition of Sir John A. Macdonald Day, Library and Archives Canada (LAC) has posted a selection of digital images about Sir John A. Macdonald on Flickr.com.

Sir John A. Macdonald Day is held every year on January 11. The Right Honourable Sir John A. Macdonald was the first Prime Minister of Canada and one of the architects of Confederation.

Visitors to the LAC album at Flickr.com are encouraged to explore the interactive image collection, which allows people to comment, tag, and share content.

View the LAC photostream on Flickr: www.flickr.com/photos/lac-bac/

View the Web exhibition Sir John A. Macdonald: Canada's Patriot Statesman: www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/023/013/index-e.html

Major Interruption of Library and Archives Canada Services on January 16

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 16:21:44 GMT

Notice - Holiday Hours at LAC: 395 Wellington St., Ottawa

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 19:18:55 GMT

Library and Archives Canada would like to remind its users that all research facilities will be closed on...

Major interruption of LAC computing services on December 19

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 14:19:27 GMT

On Saturday December 19, 2009 between 6:00 am and 12:00 pm (ET), there will be a major interruption of LAC computing services. During this period, the following services will be unavailable:

All LAC Websites

Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Modernization @ LAC Update: Pathfinders

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 20:54:59 GMT

4 New Pathfinders.

New Database: Ship Registration Index

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 20:21:54 GMT

Ship Registration is a title system for the ownership of vessels. It was implemented in the late XVIIIth Century to ensure that ships used for the transportation of goods inside the British Empire were built and managed by British citizens, including those from colonies. This system remains in place at present, but with different objectives.

The Ship Registration Index Database (SRI) contains more than 78,000 entries of ships registered in ports of Canada between 1787 and 1966. Through this research tool, you can obtain information about a ship such as its name, its type, its official number, the year and port of registration, where it was built, its date of construction and, in some cases, what happened to it. The database also allows you to find references for the physical registers or microfilm reels.

ARTISTS' BOOKS: BOUND IN ART

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 20:15:42 GMT

In the virtual exhibition Artists' Books: Bound in Art, Library and Archives Canada (LAC) presents for the first time a unique collection of artists' books dating from the early 20th century to today. The exhibition brings together the best examples from this collection of rare books that are as exceptional and imaginative as their creators. Some are stunning book objects; other pieces, while more traditionally crafted, are true works of art, as unique for the watercolours, drawings, prints and photographs that enhance them as for their bindings...

Modernization @ LAC Update: Pathfinders

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:19:21 GMT

Microform Digitization: a new way to access digitized material. AKA: Virtual Microform Reader

Thu, 26 Nov 2009 21:44:33 GMT

Numerous documents belonging to the Library and Archives Canada collection have been copied to microfiche and microfilm. Some items from this collection are being digitized for access over the Internet...

New Digitized Content Online: British Admiralty Charts of Canadian Waters

Thu, 26 Nov 2009 21:42:37 GMT

Library and Archives Canada has completed a major project to catalogue and scan its collection of original navigation charts published in London by the Hydrographic Office of the British Admiralty. The 3,400 documents, which cover a 150-year period ending in the mid-20th century, represent the largest historical description of Canada's three major oceans and the inland waters of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River. Many of the charts were prepared from surveys undertaken by the elite of the British navy: Admiral Henry Bayfield, Captain James Cook, Lieutenant George Vancouver, Sir John Franklin and Admiral William Parry...

LAC Shares Images of First World War on Flickr

Thu, 26 Nov 2009 21:40:48 GMT

Services Advisory Board Meeting: Agenda, November 27, 2009

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:16:52 GMT

Encountering Gabrielle Roy

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:13:38 GMT

Gabrielle Roy (1909-1983) is one of the most important writers in 20th-century Canadian literature. Achieving equal recognition in Quebec and English Canada, her work belongs to the literature of both cultures, and transcends national and linguistic boundaries...

Major interruption of Library and Archives Canada's computing services on November 21, 2009

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:16:05 GMT

Saturday November 21, 2009

Between 6:00 am and 12:00 pm (ET)

There will be a major interruption of Library and Archives Canada's computing services. During this period, the following services will be unavailable: All LAC Websites.

Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Modernization @ LAC

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:24:04 GMT

Library and Archives Canada is mandated to preserve and make available the documentary heritage of Canada, and to serve as the continuing memory of the Government of Canada. However, the overwhelming growth in the production of digital material, which has created an overabundance of information in a variety of formats, as well as changing user behaviors and expectations about information, have created considerable challenges for all documentary memory institutions. There is a growing awareness that there is too much content for one institution to address alone, and that collaboration among memory institutions is essential.

In order to respond to these challenges, as well as the reality of the hybrid digital/analog landscape, LAC is developing a new framework based on three pillars of documentary heritage: acquisition, preservation and resource discovery. The framework will be based on four guiding principles designed to assess the value of acquisitions: Significance, Sufficiency and Sustainability and Society. Consultations on the framework and other new approaches are currently underway, setting the stage for ongoing collaboration among actors who share similar goals...

Library and Archives Canada Audiovisual Migration Strategy

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 20:53:55 GMT

Library and Archives Canada (LAC) preserves over 530,000 hours of audio and video recordings including music, television and radio broadcasts, oral histories and interviews, documentaries and parliamentary proceedings, on cylinders, disks, or tapes. This diverse collection shares a common fate: obsolescence...

Portrait Gallery of Canada program celebrates Olympic spirit on Granville Island

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:44:21 GMT

Granville Island, B.C., November 10, 2009
The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, accompanied by Dr. Daniel J. Caron, Librarian and Archivist of Canada, today announced the upcoming installation of Portraits in the Street: Vancouver 2010. Developed by Library and Archives Canada's portrait gallery program, this installation will help celebrate the Olympic spirit through more than 20 framed reproductions to be presented on Granville Island during the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games...

Library and Archives Canada: Departmental Performance Report (DPR) and Financial Highlights 2008-2009

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:26:57 GMT

European Union Film Festival

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:45:45 GMT

November 19-December 6, 2009
7 p.m.
Auditorium, Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington St., Ottawa ON
Tickets $10; $6 members, students, seniors

The Canadian Film Institute presents its annual showcase of the best of contemporary European cinema. All films are Ottawa premieres and are presented in their original languages with English subtitles.

Tickets available at the door 30 minutes before each screening.

613-232-6727
www.cfi-icf.ca

Canada at War - Veterans Week 2009

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 21:00:44 GMT

Temporary Building Closure on October 31st, 2009 - 395 Wellington St., Ottawa

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 20:59:38 GMT

Please be advised that on Saturday October 31st , 2009, the building of 395 Wellington will be closed all day. SNC Lavalin ProFac and the City of Ottawa's fire department will perform the inspection and preventive maintenance on the sprinkler system's water supply as part of the 3-Year Life Safety Testing.

Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

One World Film Festival - October 29 and 30

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 19:12:06 GMT

One World Film Festival

5:30 p.m.
395 Wellington St., Ottawa ON
Auditorium
Tickets $12 per evening

World Inter-Action Mondiale presents its 20th annual film festival with four evenings of documentaries on global issues, as well as world music, food, guest speakers and information kiosks.

In English

www.wiam.ca

Symposium on Recordkeeping and Web 2.0 has been postponed!

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 18:03:02 GMT

Please note: The Symposium on Recordkeeping and Web 2.0 which was to be held at 395 Wellington Street on October 29th has been postponed. A new date for the symposium will be available shortly. We thank you for your patience!

Launch of the Thematic Guide to Sources Relating to the Grosse Île Quarantine Station

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:25:14 GMT

This guide consists of a history, some specific archival sources, as well as selected references relating to quarantine and the Grosse Île quarantine station. The references include administrative and policy records of the colonial and federal governments and some records created at the station itself. Some of these contain genealogical information concerning persons who passed through or died at Grosse Île...

LAC Celebrates World Audiovisual Day

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:22:12 GMT

Building now open - 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:17:47 GMT

Heating has been restored at 395 Wellington Street and the building is open to the public as of Tuesday, October 27, 2009. However, please note that public events have not yet resumed.

We encourage you to continue to check our website for updates.

Building Closure - 395 Wellington, Ottawa

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 17:13:01 GMT

Due to an incident at the Cliff Street central heating and cooling plant, the building at 395 Wellington Street is without heat and is closed until further notice.

Please check the Library and Archives Canada website (www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/index-e.html) to obtain up-to-date information. We apologize for the inconvenience to our clients.

What's On: Cancelled Events

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:26:12 GMT

Please note that all events taking place at 395 Wellington are cancelled until the end of day, Sunday, October 25, 2009. Currently, the building has no heat or hot water.

For updates on this situation, please consult the following Web page: www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/whats-new/013-421-e.html.

No heat and no hot water at 395 Wellington St., Ottawa

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:33:26 GMT

Due to an incident at the Cliff Street central heating and cooling plant, which provides heating and hot water to government facilities along Wellington Street, the facility at 395 Wellington is without heating and hot water for the time being. The delay for heat and hot water to return is not known at this time. More information will be provided when available.

Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Major interruption of LAC computing services on October 17 Major interruption of LAC computing services on October 17

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 20:08:45 GMT

On Saturday October 17, 2009 between 6:00 am and noon (ET), there will be a major interruption of LAC computing services. During this period, the following services will be unavailable: All LAC Websites Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Temporary Building Closure on October 31st, 2009 - 395 Wellington

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:31:29 GMT

Please be advised that on Saturday October 31st , 2009, the building of 395 Wellington will be closed all day. SNC Lavalin ProFac and the City of Ottawa's fire department will perform the inspection and preventive maintenance on the sprinkler system's water supply as part of the 3-Year Life Safety Testing. Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Kaleidoscope: Irish Research 101

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 17:24:07 GMT

Kaleidoscope Featuring Terry Findley from (BIFHSGO) British Isles Family History Society of Greater Ottawa; A talk entitled “Irish Research 101" by Terry Findley from BIFHSGO using Library and Archives Canada (LAC) genealogy resources.

To be held at Library and Archives Canada
395 Wellington Street, Exhibition Room A
October 15th, 2009 at 5:00 p.m.
Admission $5.00

Kaleidoscope
A series of public talks by collection specialists on material from the Library and Archives Canada collection, is presented by the Friends of Library and Archives Canada.
www.friendsoflibraryandarchivescanada.ca

Major interruption of LAC computing services on October 10, 2009

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 20:38:13 GMT

On Saturday October 10, 2009 between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm. (ET), there will be a major interruption of LAC computing services.

During this period, the following services will be unavailable:

All LAC Websites

Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

New Lower-Level Descriptive Records: 10th Canadian Reserve Battalion (1916-1919)

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 20:52:31 GMT

New file-level descriptions have been created for records created and/or maintained by the 10th Canadian Reserve Battalion (1916-1919), a unit of the Canadian Expeditionary Force (C.E.F.). The records document many aspects of the unit's activities. These descriptions are an electronic version of finding aid 9-74.

New Lower-Level Descriptive Records: Witley Camp

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 20:51:09 GMT

New file-level descriptions have been created for the records of Witley Camp, dating from 1915-1919 (finding aid 9-73). Witley was a camp in Surrey, England that served as a base for the 5th Division of the C.E.F. and a training facility for infantry during the First World War. At the end of the war troops were assembled at Witley prior to their return to Canada and demobilization. These records document many aspects of the activities of the camp.

New Online Database: French-Canadian Newspapers: An Essential Historical Source (1808-1919)

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 18:38:44 GMT

French-Canadian Newspapers: An Essential Historical Source (1808-1919) presents selected French-language newspapers from across Canada, in a digitized, fully-searchable format. These newspapers form the Library and Archives Canada (LAC) collection of first, final and special editions of French-Canadian newspapers...

Book Launch: Frank Cole, life without death

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:37:19 GMT

October 3

Frank Cole, life without death

6 p.m.

Auditorium at 395 Wellington St. in Ottawa ON

Book launch is free; film admission is $10; $6 members, students, seniors

The Canadian Film Institute is holding a book launch of the biography Life Without Death: The Cinema of Frank Cole, a retrospective of the life of legendary Canadian filmmaker Frank Cole followed by a film screening of his works.

In English

www.cfi-icf.ca

International Polar Year Film Festival

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:47:06 GMT

Auditorium, Library and Archives Canada September 28 to 30, 2009 Free; ticket is required for admission Celebrate the International Polar Year (IPY) and explore the world of science and research in the Arctic. The IPY is the largest international program of scientific research focused on the polar regions. It has brought together nations from around the world to shed light on some of the most pressing issues we face, such as climate change and the health and well-being of Northern peoples. The IPY Film Festival includes a range of films from educational works (documentaries, industrial films) to fiction films. After the screenings, filmmakers and researchers will discuss their films and answer questions. Photos and posters will be on display in the lobby. Tickets are free and are available on a first-come, first-served basis from the Canadian Film Institute by calling 613-232-6727. The Film Festival is funded through the Government of Canada Program for the IPY. www.ipy.gc.ca or www.cfi-icf.ca

What's New? Improving Services

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:58:17 GMT

Library and Archives Canada (LAC) would like to advise you of recent improvements in the delivery of its services. These improvements were made following comments and recommendations received from users and from members of the Services Advisory Board...

Déjà Vu: 40 Years of Language and Laughter in Political Cartoons

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 20:54:24 GMT

Exhibition

September 10 to December 2009

Déjà Vu: 40 Years of Language and Laughter in Political Cartoons

9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily
395 Wellington St. in Ottawa in the Main Lobby
Free

Marking the 40th anniversary of the Official Languages Act, this exhibition of cartoons portrays with humour and mordant irony key events and passionate political debates that have shaped our relationship with official languages. Presented by the Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages, in cooperation with Library and Archives Canada.

A smaller version of the exhibit will travel across the country from September 2009 to May 2010.

For more information, visit the Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages Web site at www.ocol-clo.gc.ca/html/anniversary_anniversaire_e.php.

Major interruption of LAC computing services on September 19

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 20:23:14 GMT

On Saturday September 19, 2009 between 6:00 am and 12:00 pm (ET), there will be a major interruption of LAC computing services.

During this period, the following services will be unavailable: All LAC Websites

Library and Archives Canada regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Portrait Gallery of Canada Program Continues to be Accessible to Canadians

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 22:51:08 GMT

Gatineau (Quebec), September 10, 2009 -- Library and Archives Canada today corrected inaccurate and misleading information reported by members of the media concerning the status of the Portrait Gallery of Canada...

Message from the Librarian and Archivist of Canada: Modernization

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:35:47 GMT

Service Improvements to the Prairies-Northwest Regional Service Centre

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 17:37:14 GMT

For Government of Canada Departments:

On June 1, 2009, the Treasury Board Secretariat's Directive on Recordkeeping came into effect with an objective of enabling departments to create, acquire, capture, manage and protect the integrity of information resources of business value so that they are authentic, reliable and usable...

Read Up On It

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 15:37:08 GMT

Read Up On It is a publication that promotes Canadian children's literature and reading. It highlights notable books on a given theme, and features award-winning, Canadian children's books in all categories. The publication is offered free from Library and Archives Canada. This year's theme is Ice Floes and Frost.

A Virtual Schoolhouse

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 16:35:03 GMT

Major Interruption of LAC Internet Services on February 21, 2009

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 19:16:51 GMT

All LAC Websites will be unavailable on Saturday, February 21, 2009, between 6:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. (ET).

LAC IT services apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

Digital Initiatives at LAC

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 19:42:05 GMT

Kaleidoscope: Australian Playbill

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 16:46:31 GMT

An Australian playbill printed for a July 30, 1796, Sydney production of Jane Shore, a drama written by a British playwright in the early 1700s, was discovered inside a 150-year-old scrapbook in the collection of Library and Archives Canada. Experts in both countries confirmed that the playbill is the oldest surviving document printed in Australia. During an official ceremony in 2007, Prime Minister Harper presented the document to the Australian Parliament.

The playbill was discovered in May 2007 by Elaine Hoag, rare books librarian in our Published Heritage Division, during the routine cataloguing of collections. Elaine will give a lecture on the significance of the 212-year-old document and how she discovered it this Thursday, February 12 at 5:30 p.m. in Exhibition Room A, Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa.

The lecture, followed by a period for questions, will be given in English.
Refreshments will be served.
Admission is free.

Kaleidoscope, a series of public talks by collection specialists
on material from the Library and Archives Canada collection, is
presented by
The Friends of Library and Archives Canada.

www.friendsoflibraryandarchivescanada.ca/en/home.php

COLLABORATIVE OPPORTUNITIES TO DIGITIZE COLLECTIONS

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 19:15:45 GMT

Library and Archives Canada is issuing a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEOI) for non-monetary collaborative arrangements for the digitization of its diverse collections. For more information consult link.

New Database: Census of Canada, 1891

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 15:13:40 GMT

The 1891 Census offers a rich source of information about Canada and Canadians. Through this research tool, you can access digitized images of original census returns which list the name, age, country or province of birth, nationality, religion, and occupation of Canada's residents at the time of the 1891 Census. Library and Archives Canada gratefully acknowledges the contribution of Ancestry.ca (www.ancestry.ca) without which this project would not have been possible...

Library and Archives Canada Celebrates Black History Month

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 15:11:22 GMT

Invitation - Nunavut 10th Anniversary Celebration at LAC

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 13:52:36 GMT

New Virtual Exhibition: The Early Chinese Canadians 1858-1947

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 16:52:06 GMT

Come and explore the social and political history of Canada's early Chinese communities. Library and Archives Canada (LAC) has assembled many resources to offer an overview of the topic...

Search All: New and Improved

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 19:14:23 GMT

Library and Archives Canada is pleased to announce a new, improved version of our primary institutional search page, Search All, available through Search on the top menu. Related search pages, such as Archives Search and Library Search, have been redesigned as well. The changes reflect our efforts to address issues with the previous version and to comply with the Treasury Board standard Common Look and Feel 2.0....

Nunavut 10th Anniversary Celebration

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 16:59:01 GMT

January 29, 2009
2:00p.m. - 9:30p.m.

On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of Nunavut, Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is hosting a one-day celebratory event to promote informed reflection and dialogue on the past, present and future of Nunavut...

Presented by:

LAC Forum on Canadian Democracy
The Royal Canadian Geographic Society
Arthur Kroeger College of Public Affairs

New Genealogical Records Available Online: Library and Archives Canada Connects Canadians to their Irish roots

Wed, 24 Dec 2008 14:51:36 GMT

Library and Archives Canada is pleased to announce that its partner, the National Archives of Ireland, has launched the next important phase of an online census research tool for the Irish counties of Antrim, Kerry, and Down for 1911.

KALEIDOSCOPE PRESENTS: "CHILDREN'S BOOKS - A SEASONAL SELECTION"

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 19:20:16 GMT

Josiane Polidori, Head of Children's Literature at Library and Archives Canada, will present a lecture entitled "Children's Books: A Seasonal Selection" on Wednesday, December 17, 2008, at 5:30 p.m. in Exhibition Room A of Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa.

Josiane brings a wealth of experience to the field of children's literature, having served as Chair of the Program Committee for the International Forum on Canadian Children's Literature and as President of IBBY-Canada (International Board on Books for Young People). She also participated in the 2008 IFLA satellite conference Navigating with Youth as a member of the scientific committee.

Josiane will give her lecture and field questions in English and in French. Refreshments will be served following the presentation.

Kaleidoscope, a series of public talks by collection specialists
on material from the Library and Archives Canada collection, is
presented by
The Friends of Library and Archives Canada.

www.friendsoflibraryandarchivescanada.ca/en/home.php

New Database: Quebec City Passenger Lists Index 1865-1900

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 13:54:09 GMT

Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce the launch of a new online database, Quebec City Passenger Lists Index 1865-1900. Through this online database, researchers can search by name of passengers to access digitized images of original passenger lists for arrivals at Quebec from 1865 to 1900 which list the name, age, country of origin, occupation and destination of each passenger. Library and Archives Canada gratefully acknowledges the contribution of Ancestry.ca, without which this project would not have been possible.

Collaborative Arrangements: Library and Archives Canada Agreement with Ancestry.ca - Overview

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 16:36:09 GMT

As a way of increasing public access to some of its most frequently used collections, Library and Archives Canada (LAC) has entered into a collaborative arrangement with Ancestry.ca to make accessible selected records including census, military and immigration records held by LAC for the benefit of Canadians and others throughout the world...

New Online Finding Aid: Operational Records of the Penitentiary Branch

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 17:16:23 GMT

Library and Archives Canada Celebrates International Human Rights Anniversary with Important New Collaboration

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:03:48 GMT

Library and Archives Canada - Human Rights Fact Sheet
http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/whats-new/013-367-e.html

New Educational Resources: I Do. Love and Marriage in 19th Century Canada

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 15:25:24 GMT

Based on the Web exhibition entitled I Do: Love and Marriage in 19th-Century Canada,: this series of activities engages students' writing and research abilities while exploring the 19th century. The target age range is 14 to 18 (grades 8 to 12 or secondary 2 to 5).

National Strategy puts information access on the agenda for people with print disabilities

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 21:09:00 GMT

On December 3, 2008, representatives from the library community and the publishing sector are coming together with consumers and consumer groups in a unique forum to discuss the progress of the Initiative for Equitable Library Access (IELA) in addressing the present state of access to information and the future needs of people with print disabilities. The event is being organized by Library and Archives Canada on the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities...

Notice - Building Closure

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 13:24:45 GMT

On Saturday December 13, 2008, from 06:00 to 23:00, all electrical power will be shut down at 395 Wellington Street in Ottawa ON. This power shut down is necessary to perform the inspection and preventive maintenance of the electrical components of the building. The building will not be accessible while work is being conducted.

We apologize for any inconvenience. If you have any comments, please contact Duc-Chi Tran, Director General, Services Branch at 613-992-0698 or duc-chi.tran@lac-bac.gc.ca.

Political Junkie Café

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 18:26:45 GMT

November 26, 7 p.m., Room A.
Free

Get your fix at the Political Junkie Café, where the hot topics of the past and present are on the table for discussion and debate. The theme is "Pin-Up Prime Ministers, Part 3: Robert Borden" presented by the Library and Archives Canada Forum on Canadian Democracy. Our guest: Dr. Jack Granatstein.

New Database: Immigrants to Canada before 1865

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 20:28:34 GMT

Information: 613-860-3022 / africanheritage04@hotmail.com

Friends of Library and Archives Canada

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 14:27:33 GMT

We help Library and Archives Canada to celebrate the past, honour the present and ensure the future of Canada's remarkable documentary heritage.

Library and Archives Canada Partners with Ancestry.ca

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 14:21:43 GMT

Partnership allows unprecedented online access to Canadian historical records

New Virtual Exhibition: In Quarantine: Life and Death on Grosse Île, 1832-1937

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 14:18:00 GMT

In the 19th century, an increasing stream of people was leaving Europe to rebuild their lives in North America. Around 1830, an average of 30,000 immigrants arrived annually in the City of Québec, the main port of entry to Canada...

Give us your views on future programming!

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 14:23:09 GMT

Survey on Future Programming.

LAC Launches Flickr/YouTube Project

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:45:54 GMT

Library and Archives Canada is pleased to announce that in anticipation of the 2008 Irish Studies Symposium, that will be presented on November 3 and 4, 2008, a selection of digital images related to Irish-Canadian documentary heritage are now available on Flickr.com, a popular photo-sharing community. A selection of video presentations from the upcoming Symposium will also be added to YouTube.com in November 2008...

New Virtual Exhibition: William James Topley: Reflections on a Capital Photographer

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 21:06:39 GMT

The William James Topley photographic collection is one of the most important visual records of Canada during the first 50 years after Confederation. The photographs produced by the Topley Studio provide a vivid documentation of the political, social, cultural, economic, technological and architectural changes during the first fifty years of Canada after Confederation...

New Online Finding Aid: Office of the Governor General of Canada fonds - Numbered Files

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 19:49:50 GMT

Event: Seats are still available for the 2008 Irish Studies Symposium on November 3rd, 4th 2008

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 13:23:40 GMT

New Online Finding Aid: Cabinet War Committee

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 15:11:05 GMT

New Database: Second World War Service Files: Canadian Armed Forces War Dead

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:25:53 GMT

Over 1,159,000 men and women served in the Canadian Armed Forces during the Second World War (1939-1945); 44,093 lost their lives. This research tool provides access to references to their service files in the Department of National Defence Fonds (RG 24).

Updated Virtual Exhibition: Eight New Biographies Celebrate Women's Achievements

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 21:38:39 GMT

On this site you will find a selection of exceptional Canadian women who have made outstanding contributions to Canadian society and the world. Each woman's life and achievements are described, following by a list of suggested readings.