References do not always correspond to a single page document, but may relate to a file with as many as 1000 pages of documentation. The documents are not paginated and it is not possible for us to indicate how many pages a file may contain. For this reason, we recommend that you consult the file yourself or have a freelance researcher do the work for you. Complete files only are provided.
The digitization of the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) service files is underway and a substantial number of digitized files have been added to our website as part of the Government of Canada First World War commemoration activities. We will add new files every two weeks, as the CEF digitization initiative is a priority for us. LAC will ensure that Canadians have access to the files throughout the digitization process, scheduled to be completed by the end of 2018.
For statistics and information about this digitization project, please consult our monthly updates on the Discover blog.
Please check the database regularly for new additions. If you still have questions after having checked the database, you may contact us at 1-866-578-7777
(option 8).
Making these records available in digital format will ensure:
Clients can easily and quickly download high-quality digital copies of these service files, free of charge.
The long-term preservation of these unique and fragile paper documents.
Project updates will also be shared via the Library and Archives Canada Blog on the 15th of every month.
For more information on this initiative, please consult the Fact Sheet: Digitization of Canadian Expeditionary Force Service Files.
First World War Canadian Expeditionary Forces files typically contain 25 to 75 pages while Second World War Killed In Action files contain 200 to 400 pages. Complete files only are provided.
Prices
Self-Serve Photocopies
Applies only to certain published material
- CAN $0.20/page - copying machines
Copies made by LAC staff
Applicable taxes will be added to the total cost. Orders mailed outside Canada are tax exempt.
- Regular Service -- CAN$0.40/page
- Rush Service -- CAN$0.80/page
Discounts for Students and for Senior Citizens (65 years of age and over)
Proof of identification is required. ID cards must be presented in person or a scanned copy must be attached to your request. Students: a photo identification card confirming full-time status as a student at an accredited educational institution. Senior Citizens: a document, preferably with a photograph, confirming date of birth (e.g.: driver's licence, birth certificate, provincial health insurance card, passport)
- Regular Service -- CAN$0.30/page
- Rush Service --- CAN$0.60/page
Printed Copies 18" x 24" (Reader-Printer) of Cartographic and Architectural Documents
Applicable taxes will be added to the total cost.
Orders mailed outside Canada are tax exempt.
- Regular Service -- CAN$4.00
- Rush Service -- CAN$8.00
Service Standards and Terms and Conditions for textual and microform documents
The following factors affect the time it takes to process an order:
- the number of items ordered;
- the need to search for additional information;
- time required to register requests;
- delays of 36 to 48 hours for delivery of documents from off-site storage;
- time required by staff to identify requested documents; and
- the workload.
We reserve the right to limit the number of pages that we can process in 30 business days. Please submit your request well in advance of your deadline or choose the rush service.
Regular Service
Orders are processed within 30 business days of receipt.
Rush Service
Orders are processed within 10 business days of receipt and only if the following conditions are met:
- reference number is provided;
- copyright status and access restrictions have been established;
- access and copying restrictions do not apply or a letter of permission is included with the order;
- requested documents are available;
- "rush service" is indicated on the request; and
- consent to pay the additional surcharge of 100% is indicated on the request.
Response Times
Textual Documents
In-person Requests
- Maximum of 100 copies per 24 hours,
Other Requests
- Under 1000 pages, within 10 business days,
Requests for 1000 - 6000 pages
Microform
105-mm microfiches, maps and architectural drawings produced by LAC staff
Under 500 copies
500 to 1500 copies
Shipping
Handling Fee: CAN$0.35
Method of Payment
Online requests
When your order from LAC is complete, a link to the Receiver General Buy Button (RGBB) will be sent to the email address you provided. You may pay the Receiver General by credit or debit card.
In-person requests
Cash, credit card (VISA, MasterCard or American Express) and debit card
Government employees
Payment must be done by using the interdepartmental settlement system. The process requires the following three codes: the department number, the organization code and the reference code.
Supplier
Library and Archives Canada
395 Wellington Street
Ottawa, ON K1A 0N4
CANADA
Telephone:
613-996-5115![Call: 613-996-5115]()
or
1 866 578-7777![Call: 1 866 578-7777]()
(toll free in Canada and the U.S,)
TTY:
613-992-6969![Call: 613-992-6969]()
or
1 866 299-1699![Call: 1 866 299-1699]()
(toll free in Canada)
Fax:
613-995-6274![Call: 613-995-6274]()
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