Blog

August 27, 2020

Archives in the time of Coronavirus...

We look forward to welcoming you back to Stratford-Perth Archives! We've been limited to answering questions and fulfilling research requests over the phone and by email for months - and we are more than happy to continue providing that type of service - but you now have the option to visit in person to do your research.

Things are set up a little differently but you can still count on friendly service as we help you to access a wealth of historical information and images at the Archives.

Some of the big changes are that appointments and a COVID screening questionnaire are now required for all visits. And, please bring your mask, though we can provide one if you forget.  Before your appointment, Archives staff will spend time discussing your research with you over the phone or by email so they can recommend what records will likely provide the information that you need, and have them ready and waiting when you arrive. The hand sanitizer that we are all using to stay safe is very damaging to our collections so you will be asked to wear gloves that we provide to protect what you are handling. We’ll set aside a plexi-glass protected work station, chair, records cart, and even a coat locker just for you on the day of your appointment. You can now use your cell phone or camera to make copies. Or, you can flag what you’d like photocopied or scanned and we’ll send you the copies later. Prefer just taking notes and you forgot your pencil? No problem, the cups of extra ones are gone from the tables but we can still supply one for you. And, yes, we have a bathroom available for researchers.

Everyone here is eager to get back to “normal” while ensuring safety for ourselves, our researchers and our collections. The entire staff of Stratford-Perth Archives is grateful for your patience and good cheer. Service by email so you don’t need to come in is still an option. But, if you’re ready, please contact us to set up appointments to use the collections or to meet with the Archivist to discuss possible donations of archival material.