Library and Archives Canada - Public Archives and National Library Building

I’ve been here a few times over the years, and it’s always been a smooth, positive experience. The building has a quiet, steady atmosphere that makes it easy to focus, whether you’re doing research, exploring the exhibits, or just taking in the history of the place. Staff are helpful, the space is well organized, and everything feels thoughtfully maintained. It’s the kind of place you appreciate more each time you visit — not flashy, but reliable and full of depth if you take the time to look. A solid stop for anyone interested in Canada’s history, archives, or public records. All good every time I’ve been here.

I stopped by and explored several floors of the building, it’s truly massive. The staff were friendly and welcoming, and they mentioned that the building was completed in the 1960s, which is clearly reflected in the interior design and decor. It has a vintage, institutional charm that feels frozen in time. A definite highlight was the stunning view from the 7th floor.

I filed ATIP request A-2025-05121 with Library and Archives Canada asking 10 specific questions about a modification to a digitized 1926 census record (Item ID 71355526). The record's own metadata shows it was modified on January 26, 2026 (dcterms.modified: 2026-01-26), despite being originally issued in 2016. I asked what was modified, whether LAC maintains audit trails for changes to digitized historical records, what the record contained before modification, and whether original unaltered copies exist separate from public-facing versions. LAC closed the file on February 17, 2026 without answering a single question. They cited no exemption under the Access to Information Act. They attributed the decision to their "Research Support team" without identifying who assessed it or what criteria were applied. They also assigned my 2026 request a 2025 file number (A-2025-05121) despite having no prior interaction with me in 2025. I note that other reviewers of Slavic and Eastern European background have reported similar experiences with LAC refusing to acknowledge or correct errors in their digitization work. I believe anti-Slavic bias in LAC's handling of records and access requests is a distinct possibility. Canada has provided historical redress to Japanese-Canadian, Chinese-Canadian, and Italian-Canadian families for institutional abuses, while Polish-Canadian families subjected to documented child indentured labor have received no acknowledgment, no investigation, and no redress. LAC's refusal to account for modifications to records that document the placement of Polish children into forced labor in the 1920s fits within this broader pattern of selective accountability. If you are researching Slavic or Eastern European family history through LAC's digitized records, be aware that records can be modified without notice, and LAC may not explain what was changed if you ask. Check the page source metadata on any record you access -- look for the dcterms.modified field. If the modification date is recent, your record may have been altered from its original digitized form. The authoritative version is the original microfilm, not the digital database. Request your own audit trail through ATIP if you find discrepancies. Document everything with screenshots including metadata. The record in question documents Polish-Canadian children who were orphaned, had their surnames altered, were placed into indentured servitude, and had their family's land grants seized through tax sale while they were still minors working as forced labor on other people's farms. These children were not given a single possession from their family home. Now the institution tasked with preserving this history is modifying the digital records that document it and refusing to explain why.

The staff at Library and Archives Canada are terrible at their job (I'm writing about video digitization) and don't want to admit and correct their mistakes! If I could, I would rate them zero stars! I definitely do not recommend cooperating with them!

Back there today. Has reopened after Covoid Staff friendly and extremely helpful. Helped get my Ottawa Street Directories for me off shelf and onto cart. Had surgery can't lift heavy things. Got home sore and stuff. 61 year old not used to working again. A few more days should be better. Thanks

There for Paul Myers talk/reading. Everyone was friendly and professional. Interesting building/architectural features

Amazing Time Capsules, A must visit for young Canadians to learn about Canada 🇨🇦 History.

Terrific place for research but... ...also amazingly good for buying second hand books, maps, records, CDs etc.

The purpose of Library and Archives Canada is to preserve and display various pieces of Canadian heritage, such as art, music, archival records and books. There are many interesting events constantly being offered at this building, often for very cheap. However, the reason I'm reviewing this government building is to reveal one of my favourite offerings that perhaps more people could benefit from. The Library and Archives often runs film festivals, usually focusing on films from specific countries. It's even less known that even when they don't have a festival running, the LAC often screens foreign and Canadian films and docs. Admission is almost always cheap. Keep an eye on their event listings through the above website link.

I came here for a Architecture lecture in the library. The place itself is beautiful and well-maintained, with a lot of white as part of the décor. Washrooms are clean, there is always security on site, and the models and art on the walls are beautiful as well.