This fall we’re launching our new website, designed to make it easier to access our records and services. With improved navigation and streamlined information, you’ll be able to explore Ontario’s history whether you are on your phone, tablet or computer.  Explore the main features below and watch a short video to see how it works.  

Topic pages

We’re making it easier to find online copies of records by bringing related content together in one place. Our new Topic pages enhance discovery of our collections, showcasing what’s already digitized while helping you navigate our collections and services. When the new site launches, our most popular Research Guides (including wills and estate files, divorce records and land records) will become dedicated Topic pages. Printed versions of the original research guides will still be available in the Reading Room, at the Archives of Ontario, for in-person use.

What’s New webpage

The new website will have a dedicated ‘What’s New’ section to keep you informed about the latest news, collections and online exhibits. Blog-style stories will be posted about:

• What’s on – featuring events and activities
• Archives news – introducing new services, products or key announcements
• Collections news – highlighting new additions to the archival collection
• Behind the scenes – showcasing staff projects and the inside scoop on what we do

Online exhibits

Our online exhibits are being re-imagined. They’ll have a focus on visuals — bringing these stories from our collections to life. We’re launching with a new exhibit, Hidden Histories in the Archives: Ontario and the World Wars, which focuses on Ontario's role in these conflicts through the stories of Japanese Canadians, Black Canadians and Canadian women. We’re also re-releasing several of the most popular online exhibits from our catalogue as part of the launch.

Online forms

Our new online forms on our website will simplify access to our services.

You can use the forms to:

• Request records to view them in person in our Reading Room, at the Archives of Ontario
• Order copies of archival materials (called reproductions) for personal, education or research use
• Submit multiple requests in one form to save time

The forms guide you through the required information to complete a request. They are simple to use on
any electronic device, and are highly secure, with no personal data stored.

We hope you’ll enjoy our new website and that these improved forms make connecting with Ontario’s
history easier.