Library and Archives Canada - History and Mandate

History and Mandate

Library and Archives Canada (LAC) was created by the Library and Archives of Canada Act (Bill C-8), proclaimed on April 22, 2004. A subsequent order-in-council dated May 21, 2004 united the collections, services and personnel of the National Archives of Canada and the National Library of Canada. Since its creation it has reported to Parliament through the Minister of Canadian Heritage.

Canada was one of the first countries in the world to combine its national library and its national archives into a single memory institution.

As stated in the Preamble of the Library and Archives of Canada Act, LAC's mandate is:

• to preserve the documentary heritage of Canada for the benefit of present and future generations;
• to be a source of enduring knowledge accessible to all, contributing to the cultural, social and economic advancement of Canada;
• to facilitate in Canada co-operation among communities involved in the acquisition, preservation and diffusion of knowledge; and
• to serve as the continuing memory of the Government of Canada and its institutions.

One of its important roles includes serving as the continuing memory of the Government of Canada and its institutions by supporting accurate record keeping ensuring transparency and accountability. As part of its mandate, LAC works with other archives and libraries to acquire and preserve Canada's documentary heritage in all its forms.

The mandate as well as more information about the institution can be found on LAC's website. The full text of the Library and Archives of Canada Act may be found at the Department of Justice website.