Exploring Library and Archives Canada Online

Ken McKinlay
Jun 20, 2025
724 views
CC
Free
Free through June 27, 2025
Want to watch the full webinar?
Join now to access all 2,431 webinars and unlock all features.

Content

Play. Playing.
Welcome
1m 50s
Play. Playing.
Speaker's Introduction
1m 17s
Play. Playing.
Introduction
6m 51s
Play. Playing.
Collections
7m 48s
Play. Playing.
Research Guides
11m 27s
Play. Playing.
Census Records
14m 02s
Play. Playing.
Military Records
9m 03s
Play. Playing.
Collection Search
14m 09s
Play. Playing.
Announcements / prizes
3m 24s
Play. Playing.
Questions / answers
5m 42s

About this webinar

Over the past few years, the website for Library and Archives Canada has undergone a number of changes. For some long-time users of the old site, this has caused moments of frustration. In this talk we take a look at the new site, touch upon using the new census search system, and explore other resources they have made available to us.

Discount code: canada25 (valid at Familytreewebinars.com)

Valid through: June 24, 2025

About the speaker

About the speaker

Ken McKinlay’s foray into his family tree research started with three simple family stories that he wanted to confirm or refute. Even though the truths behind those initial tales have been uncovered, more questions continue to surface needin
Learn more...

Key points and insights

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.

Key Takeaways

  • 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.

To fully appreciate the depth and scope of Library and Archives Canada—and to avoid common pitfalls—watch the full webinar. McKinlay’s hands-on approach, combined with his years of research experience, equips genealogists with the skills to uncover Canadian ancestors efficiently and effectively.

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.

Comments (73)

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

1000 characters remaining

Sort by Newest
Sort by Close.
  • Newest
  • Oldest
  • Likes
  1. BJ
    Blaine Jensen
    3 days ago

    This was a great introduction to the LAC resource that I have never used before. The speaker was clear, enthusiastic, and made it so that I am not intimidated to go an try out the site.

    Reply
    1
  2. PT
    Patricia Taylor
    3 days ago

    Ken’s guided tour of the LAC site and encouraging words are just what I needed. Thanks!

    Reply
    2
  3. WJ
    Wesley Johnston
    3 days ago

    Great job, Ken — navigating the new website effectively is a non-trivial task

    Reply
    1
  4. DM
    Donna Martin
    3 days ago

    Wonderful presentation. We are so fortunate in Canada to have the LAC.

    Reply
    1
  5. LS
    Linda Sponenburgh
    3 days ago

    I enjoyed Me. McKinley’s enthusiasm and encouragement in searching genealogy records in Canada. I learned something. 🙂

    Reply
    1
  6. BL
    Beverly Leeming
    3 days ago

    While case studies are fascinating, nothing beats the helpfulness of a detailed, clearly explained how to.

    Reply
  7. GW
    George Wozny
    3 days ago

    Good information but wish there was more.

    Reply
  8. JF
    Jean Foster
    3 days ago

    Good look at the Archives Canada website

    Reply

Related Webinars