Library and Archives Canada (LAC)

Photo by Hermes Rivera on Unsplash

The Library and Archives Canada (LAC) has likely been a “go to” place for you if you have Canadian ancestors.  They have a wealth of information.  Some online while others to be researched in person.  This past year plus has been challenging for many, including an institution such as this.  They are in the process of revamping their website and have introduced podcasts to help us discover interesting treasures in their collections.  Let’s look.

​First, take some time to explore the Library and Archives Canada (LAC) - Library and Archives Canada (bac-lac.gc.ca).  It has a very diverse set of records that encompasses all Canadian history.  You can view more about the types and quantities of records here:  About the Collection - Library and Archives Canada (bac-lac.gc.ca)
 
As you can see the volume of records can be overwhelming.  That’s why I think it is very clever that they’ve decided to do a podcast features interesting treasures in their archives as identified by the archivists who work there.  While these might not be the family history record you were seeking, they are interesting and may trigger additional ideas for your research.  The first episode is a letter related to the archives and cats.  You can listen here:  Treasures Revealed Episode 1 – Cat Letter - Library and Archives Canada (bac-lac.gc.ca)
 
If you want to be notified of future podcasts, check out this page:  Discover Library and Archives Canada (pod.link).
 
I especially found the site useful to understand land records and combined that information with what was available on FamilySearch to track down land records of an ancestor.  You search by ancestor to see what you can find or explore the census records or find photographs that reflect the places and times that your ancestors lived.  It’s worth exploring if you have Canadian ancestors.
 
A podcast is a great way to take a break and still learn something new to help with your family research.  Happy listening!