Genealogy & Family History

Electronic index to BC's historical birth, death and marriage registration records. Birth records are available 120 years after date of birth, marriage records 75 years after date of marriage, and death records 20 years after date of death. Many of the records now have the image file linked at the index level. Microfilm copies can be viewed at the Library.

Covering the period 1860-1955, this is an excellent resource for anyone researching their ancestors, the history of a home or business, or just wanting a sense of what British Columbia communities were like in the early years.

The main genealogy society for the Vancouver area. They have regular meetings in Burnaby and run the excellent Walter Draycott Library in Surrey. Website has links to their catalogue and other sites for genealogy.

Search the digital collections of libraries, archives and museums from across Canada, as well as access 60 million pages of Canadian digital documentary heritage.

A comprehensive categorized and cross-referenced index to genealogical resources on the internet. A good starting point for genealogy research by topic. Many, many links.

A gateway to Canada's genealogical resources provided by Library and Archives Canada. It offers genealogical content, advice, services and research tools.

The purpose of this site is to connect people so they can help each other and share genealogical research. It includes many user contributed records and databases as well as messageboards. Supported by Ancestry.com.

VPL has a comprehensive genealogy and family history subject guide with helpful links to material in their own collection as well as links and ideas for searching elsewhere.