Library and Archives Canada (LAC) will provide $1.5 million to support 39 projects (including 30 new projects) by archives, libraries and documentary heritage institutions throughout Canada.

“My warmest congratulations to the 2018–2019 recipients! Again this year, Canadians passionate about our rich cultural heritage will be able to preserve and share it with others because of the Documentary Heritage Communities Program. These wonderful projects and fascinating stories will help safeguard our country’s memory for generations to come.”

– The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage

“Each year, Library and Archives Canada has the great pleasure to provide this funding to organizations dedicated to preserving Canadian heritage. The help that we offer will expand access to the rich documentary heritage in our communities and make a real contribution to the common good and sustainable development.”

– Guy Berthiaume, Librarian and Archivist of Canada

“LAC’s contribution will enable the McCord Museum to expand access to its rich collection of textual archives. The selected documents will be described and indexed using a new approach, with particular attention to the emotions and values they convey. By communicating these timeless and universal concepts, the museum will become part of a rarely explored tangent of social history while greatly expanding access to its archives.”

– Suzanne Sauvage, President and Chief Executive Officer, McCord Museum

“The project will enhance the sustainability of a key part of Canadian theatre heritage through digitization, preserving it for generations of the future and making it accessible to Canadians from all walks of life online and through community events. Through sharing the knowledge that comes from the project, it is hoped that it will also foster networks across Canada that will enhance the understanding and enjoyment of Canada’s theatre history.”

– Shelley Stevenson, Administrative Director, Stratford Festival

• The DHCP was created in 2015 to provide financial assistance for activities that enhance the visibility of, and access to, materials held by Canada’s local documentary heritage institutions. The program also aims to increase the capacity of local institutions to sustainably preserve, promote and showcase the country’s documentary heritage. At the end of the selection process, the DHCP will provide contributions for eligible applicants across Canada for a variety of projects that will allow citizens to access and engage with their nation’s history like never before. 

• Incorporated and unincorporated non-profit organizations such as archives, privately funded libraries, historical societies, genealogical organizations and societies, professional library and archival associations, and museums with an archival component are eligible to apply for funding under the DHCP.

• Applications received by LAC are reviewed by an external advisory committee.

• Including the amounts allocated this year, LAC’s support for documentary heritage communities has totalled $6 million since the DHCP was launched in 2015.

• The next funding cycle will be launched in fall 2018. 

Related products

• Documentary Heritage Communities Program

Media Relations
Library and Archives Canada
819-994-4589
bac.media.lac@canada.ca