Explore our finding aids

Archival records are described in finding aids, which include information about the creator, subject matter and types of records contained in a fonds or collection. Do a keyword search or browse our finding aids via Discover Archives, a shared online platform across twelve of the University of Toronto’s archives and special collections repositories. 

See our Holdings page see what is available to access on site in our reading room, as well as a list of digitized or born-digital holdings that are available online.

We are still in the process of creating finding aids. In the meantime, please contact us for research assistance or view our Holdings page to see what is available online. 

Request research assistance

Archives & Special Collections staff are available to help researchers locate material related to their topic of interest. Contact us by filling out the Research Request Form.

Make an appointment

Rare and unique archival material and collections may be viewed by appointment only. To request material, book an appointment, and/or to request research assistance, please fill out the Research Request Form. Some of our holdings are stored off site so a minimum of two business days advance notice is recommended to ensure we have time to retrieve your requested material.

Accessibility

The Archives & Special Collections Reading Room is located on the ground floor and is accessible through the main entrance of the Hazel McCallion Academic Learning Centre (HMALC). There is a wheelchair accessible all-gender washroom located on the same floor. Please contact us at utml.cds@utoronto.ca if you have any further questions or requests related to your visit.

During Your Visit

We are dedicated to making your research experience as rewarding and productive as possible. We ask you to cooperate with us to preserve the Archives & Special Collections’ materials for posterity by observing the following Reading Room Procedures & Regulations.

Reading Room Procedures

1. 1. Book an appointment and request material before each visit.
   2. Store personal belongings (coats, bags, purses, etc.) in a locker provided in the reading room.
   3. On your first visit, fill out a Reader Registration form and show valid ID (e.g. T-Card, driver’s license or other photo ID) to reading room staff for identity verification.
   4. You are permitted to consult a maximum of three (3) items or one (1) box of requested material at your work station at a time.
   5. Return all material 15 minutes before closing.
   6. Personal items used in the reading room including notebooks and laptops may be inspected when you exit.

Reading Room Regulations

Permitted items

• • • Proof of identity
    • Laptops (without cases)
    • Tablets
    • Cell phones
    • Writing material
    • Pencils and erasers

Prohibited items

• • • Personal belongings including coats, bags, purses, umbrellas and other items not necessary for research
    • Food and beverages (including water)
    • Pens, markers and highlighters

Care for material

• • • Only pencils, paper, laptops and other portable computers can be used for note taking purposes
    • Avoid placing anything on the documents or files
    • Avoid rearranging material within boxes or files
    • Use our acid-free bookmarks to mark your place in a box or file to ensure that material removed is placed back in the original order
    • Do not remove photographs, negatives or slides from their protective sleeves
    • When applicable, staff may request that researchers wear white cotton gloves to handle material, or wash hands to remove oils, creams and other skin products which can damage material

Care for others

• • • Cell phones must be on silent while in the reading room
    • Avoid or reduce the use of perfume, cologne, and other scented products

Reproductions and copies

• • • Digital copies of material may be made or requested using the Reproduction of Archival Material Request Form
    • Researchers assume full responsibility regarding questions of copyright and citation that arise in the use of copies
    • Consult the guidelines outlined on the Reproduction & Citation page for the complete terms and conditions