Individuals
Below you will find information about the types of personal and family records the OJA is interested in acquiring.
Why we collect personal and family records
Personal and family records are a key part of our collecting mandate, as they provide a view into Jewish life in the province. From our perspective, no story is too small, and no family is too modest to be of interest.
Records we are interested in
Generally, the OJA is interested in:
- photographs
- personal correspondence
- immigration documents
- diaries and journals
- speeches
- writings
- artwork, drawings, doodles
- occupational and professional records
- films and videos
- audio recordings and oral histories
- born-digital documents and photographs
Records we are not interested in
Generally, the OJA is not interested in:
• copies (rather than originals)
• poor quality photographs
• cheque stubs and receipts
• loose envelopes
• travel documents such as airline tickets or brochures
• unused items like blank notebooks
• plaques and other mounted items
• published books and religious texts
• records originating outside Ontario, unless they are essential to the person’s or family's story
Next steps
To begin the donation process, please complete the donation offer form. The information you provide will help our archivists assess your materials and advise you of next steps.