Library and archives research basics

About the collection, how to search and save your research, how to access the collection, and tips for researching archives and libraries.

Research tips and help

First steps for doing historical research

Knowing how archives are organized will help make your research more effective

How to search our library catalogue (Aurora) for published material and digital documents

What to do before visiting to order and view documents

Learn the terms used in libraries and archives

Save your research and collaborative contributions, track archival orders, view events calendar

How to find, filter, read and save results in our main search engine

Learn how to order archival and published material

How to handle materials properly without damaging them

All records in the archival collection have an access code. Find out what they are and what they mean

How to give credit or cite Library and Archives Canada material