Using the Archives

Planning your archival research

Archival research can be rewarding, but often requires time and patience. Preliminary investigation of a research topic can save you considerable time. Before visiting the archives, determine your specific research subject and areas of interest. Consult published sources available online or in local libraries before coming to the Municipal Archives. Local History and Genealogy at Halifax Public Libraries is an excellent starting point for Halifax regional history.

Finding archival materials online

You can start your search for primary source documents, original photographs, maps, or audio-visual material online before even stepping foot into the Municipal Archives. Search the Municipal Archives database or view our Source guides to see if we have what you’re looking for. 

The following records are not available at the Municipal Archives but may be available elsewhere: 

An increasing percentage of the Municipal Archives’ content is available online, as we digitize more paper records and acquire digital records; however, much is still only available on paper. When you identify material you would like to view, you can either come to view it at the Municipal Archives or request a copy to be sent to you for a fee.

Visiting the Archives

Please contact the Municipal Archives to discuss your question(s), to request copies of records, or to schedule a visit. Provide as much as much detail as possible to help us better identify potential sources for your research.

See the Municipal Archives' Locations and Hours, to access the comfortable and welcoming reading room for viewing records. Our facility is wheelchair accessible, with gender-neutral washrooms, and lockers to secure your personal belongings. Visitors can take photographs of material and take notes by hand or laptop, and free Wi-Fi access is available.

Staff will assist you in identifying sources for your research, including sources available at other organizations, and will retrieve original records for you or show you how to view microfilm copies.

What to expect during your visit

Upon arrival, all visitors must show photo identification to register.

You are working with unique and often very fragile historical records. We ask that you follow the below rules to help preserve the municipality’s archival records.

  • Leave briefcases, large purses, backpacks, umbrellas, and overcoats in the secure lockers in the reception area. The Municipal Archives is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
  • Archival material must not be removed from the reading room. Staff reserve the right to inspect bags and folders when you leave the reading room.
  • Eating, drinking, and chewing gum is prohibited in the reading room. Visitors may eat and drink in the lobby area.
  • Records are delivered to visitors in the reading room. To protect the records, staff may limit the amount of material supplied to a visitor at one time.
  • Cameras may be used to photograph documents. For preservation reasons, the use of desk-top scanners is prohibited.
  • Handle records carefully and deliberately. Follow the handling instructions provided by staff.
  • Please set your phone to silent. If you need to make a call, use the lobby area out of consideration of other visitors and staff. 

The Municipal Archives reserves the right to cancel visitor privileges in the event of persistent violation of these rules or mishandling of the records. 

What if I am unable to visit the Archives?

If you are unable to come to the Archives in person, you can submit requests by phone or email and staff will consult the records on your behalf for up to one hour per year per researcher. Staff will help you identify good archival sources, but cannot take the time to do more than minimal research for users.

If you need research services beyond one hour consult our List of Professional Researchers available for hire.