Plan A Visit

The City of Victoria Archives’ reading room at 8 Centennial Square is open by appointment only. Appointments can be made on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 3 p.m.

Book an Appointment

Before you book an appointment, it is recommended that you prepare to make the most of your time at the City Archives. You can search descriptions of records ahead of time through the Archives’ Online Search.

Archives’ Online Search Online Search Guide [PDF/1.4MB]

City Archives staff are available by phone or email to discuss your research. They can help you identify potentially relevant records. 

After you have identified the records that you would like to view, you may email the Archives at archives@victoria.ca or call 250.361.0375 to book an appointment. To book a time, you will be asked about your topic of research, the date and time slot you’d prefer and any reference codes for the records you want to view. 

If this is your first time visiting the City Archives this year, you will need to register.

Registration

Visitors to the City Archives must complete an Archives Researcher Registration Form on their first visit each year. Print the form and bring it completed to the Archives or complete your form when you arrive.  

Along with your completed, signed form, you need to provide one piece of government issued photo identification (e.g., a driver's licence, passport, status card, etc.). Archives staff will then give you a Registration Card. Bring this card with you each time you visit the Archives.

Archives Researcher Registration Form [PDF/762KB]

At the City Archives

During your visit, if you would like to retain a copy of the records you view, you have two options:

Photocopying

Photocopies of many of the records may be obtained. Some records are subject to conservation, copyright and legal restrictions. Staff make copies as quickly as time allows.

Photocopies are $0.25 per letter/legal page and $0.50 for 11×17" pages.

Self-Serve Digital Copies

Researchers may take digital, photographic copies of archival material under the following conditions:

  • Non-restricted material may be copied for personal use upon verbal agreement of the Archivist, as long as it is properly handled and identified as City of Victoria property.

If You Can't Visit the City Archives

The City Archives responds to enquiries by mail, phone, fax and email. Although resources limit the amount of research Archivists can do for you, they will try to provide basic answers and information regarding research tools and sources. You are also encouraged to explore the Archives’ Online Search for descriptions of records and scanned photographs.