Archival collection
About our collection
Our archival collection documents the heritage of the place we now call Ontario.
The collection is made up of records donated to us by private individuals and organizations, and records created by provincial ministries as part of carrying out the day-to-day functions of government.
Our records by number
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158,000+ metres
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Textual records |
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|---|---|---|
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6,600,000+
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Photographs |
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318,330+
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Architectural drawings |
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113,000+
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Maps |
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39,900+ hours
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Audio, visual and film records |
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32 TB
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Digital records |
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How to access the archival collection
You can access records from our archival collection in person in our Reading Room. You can also order digital or print copies.
You can search our archival online using Collection Search. Get advice on how to use Collection Search. Find record retrieval times and other information on our how to access items page.
Once you’ve found what you’re looking for, you can request records to view in-person in the Reading Room or order reproductions to be delivered electronically or by mail.
Stories from the archival collection
The records in our archival collection help researchers, writers, artists and others tell new stories about the people, places and events in Ontario’s history.
Check out our online exhibits to learn what we’ve uncovered from our archival collection. See what’s on to learn what you can see in person in our exhibition spaces.
We are always adding new records to our archival collection. Learn what’s coming to the Reading Room.