Exploring Library and Archives Canada Online

The webinar “Exploring Library and Archives Canada Online,” presented by Ken McKinlay, is an essential resource for genealogists researching Canadian ancestry. As part of the "O, Canada" series hosted by Legacy Family Tree Webinars, the session guides participants through the often complex and evolving website of Library and Archives Canada (LAC). With practical insights from McKinlay, an experienced researcher, viewers gain the tools and strategies to navigate LAC’s digital holdings—unlocking census records, military files, immigration data, and more. Emphasizing real-life examples, the webinar highlights the immense value LAC offers while acknowledging its limitations and workarounds.

• Mastering the Search Tools Is Crucial: LAC’s website offers multiple search interfaces—from the basic and advanced Collection Search to specialized tools for census and military records. McKinlay advises against relying solely on the generic search bar, instead recommending more targeted sections like the A–Z Research Tools and Guides page, which indexes hundreds of topics including ethnic groups, professions, and historic events.
• Not Everything Is Online—But Many Gems Are: Despite only about 5% of LAC’s collections being digitized, the available materials are rich with genealogical value. McKinlay demonstrates how to access digitized census images, World War I and II service files, and even obscure collections like postmaster listings and colonial prisoner records. He also explains how archived versions of the old LAC site can supplement current tools.
• Workarounds for Technical and Access Issues: International users may encounter errors like the “403 Forbidden” message. McKinlay shares tips for overcoming such barriers, including using archived pages and seeking partner sites like Heritage or WorldCat. He also discusses when to engage formal Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) requests, especially for post-WWII military and naturalization files.

For those looking to expand their research even further, don't miss the extensive five-page syllabus accompanying the webinar, which includes direct links and additional resources. This guide is especially useful for exploring lesser-known databases and navigating LAC’s complex site structure. Dive in, discover your Canadian roots, and make the most of this invaluable resource.