Requesting Historical Materials: The Basics

Original historical materials are stored in our Records Centre. To access records, an appointment to the Archives is recommended.

1. Search our online database, build a list and generate a Records Request Form.
2. Send the form to us.
3. Wait for the records to be brought to you from Records Centre storage.

Requesting Records on Saturdays

The Research Hall is closed on Saturday, but the Atrium is open from 12 p.m to 5 p.m. to view our exhibit.

Requesting Records with Restricted Access

There are some materials that you may see only under certain conditions. You can see these under “Accession conditions” in the database.

• Government records may be restricted by provincial access and privacy legislation.
• For some non-government records, you’ll need to fill out a form asking the permission of the donor before you see the records.
• For records that contain sensitive information, you’ll need to submit an application for access for non-government records.

Archives staff can help you identify which materials are restricted, and how you can request access to them.