Educator Resources

What is an Archives?

The word “archives” can refer to a collection of historical records, as well as the place they are located (“The Archives”). Archival records are primary source documents that have accumulated over the course of an individual’s or an organization's lifetime.

A document becomes “archival” when it is  selected for permanent or long-term preservation because of its enduring cultural, historical, or evidentiary value. Archival documents are normally unpublished and almost always unique, unlike books or magazines for which many identical copies exist. Some archival documents are on paper, but they can also be photographs, recordings, and other media.

Dowload the Guide "Intro to Archives" to find out more. Source: Canadian Jewish Heritage Network , “Using Archives – An Introduction”, created by Janice Rosen for Canadian Jewish Congress Charities Committee National Archives.

Where can I find Archives in British Columbia?

There are many archives collections throughout British Columbia. To view a full list of BC archives, visit www.memorybc.ca.

• Passover: Do you know your Seder Plate?
• The Jewish Holidays (General): Holli-Days Putt-Putt World
• Hannukah: Light the Menorah 
• Hannukah: Design your own dreidel online. Then print, fold and play!
• Is it  Kosher? Think you know which animals are kosher to eat? Think again! We’re sure to surprise you with our fun list of animals which may or may not be kosher to eat.