Our collections databases are available online and can be accessed by anyone. We have three databases, each containing descriptions of different records at the BC Archives.

BC Archives collection

You can search for descriptions of archival records held at the BC Archives and access digital versions, where available, using this database. Archival records include textual records, photographs, documentary art, sound recordings, moving images and cartographic records such as maps.

For instructions and tips for searching, please see the main page of the BC Archives Collections Search.

Please read the Notes Area in all higher levels of description for access and copying restrictions, to see availability of the records in other formats and to locate the finding aid.

Search Archives

Archives Library collection

You can search for descriptions of publications held in our library using this database. Publications include books, directories, pamphlets, government reports, and more.

For help with your search, please see the Help tab at the bottom of the Search screen.

There are also indexes to and inventories of some of our library materials available on our Reference Guides and Inventories page.

Search Library

Search Genealogy

You can search for open birth, marriage and death registrations using this database. Many registrations have been digitized and are attached to the listing under Vital Stat Image(s).

Watch our instructional video: How to: BC Archives Genealogy Search

If you cannot find an image of the vital event registration record online, please refer to Accessing BC vital event registrations guide

Search Genealogy

Most digitized records have been linked directly to their database records but in some cases this has not yet happened due to the volume of records.

Transcribe contains digitized versions of government and private records and gives you the opportunity to help make the Royal BC Museum’s extensive collections more accessible.

Some of our collections have also been digitized by other institutions. Please see External Resources for links to and descriptions of these resources.

Webster!

Iconic TV personality Jack Webster hosted a regular TV show from 1978–1987 featuring his interviews with prominent politicians, artists and advocates, capturing issues, concerns and interests of British Columbians. These recordings are being digitized and are available on our YouTube channel.

Transcribe

Transcribe contains digitized versions of government and private records and gives you the opportunity to help make the Royal BC Museum’s extensive collections more accessible.

100 Objects of Interest

This online exhibition highlights 100 objects from the museum and archives. The highlighted objects have been digitized and have a detailed description of the item and their importance.

Some of our collections have also been digitized by other institutions. Please see External Resources for links to and descriptions of these resources.

Guides, indexes and inventories

Detailed inventories of collections, as well as guides by subject that provide you with resources available at the BC Archives, useful publications and recommendations for other places to look for the records you are seeking.

Links

If you have any questions about our collections, please contact us.