Uploaded January 2026 | Updated September 2026, 10 hours ago
Discover Alberta’s documentary heritage using Access to Memory (AtoM), the Provincial Archives of Alberta’s online database. Whether you're a student, community researcher, academic, family historian or simply curious about Alberta’s past, this tutorial will provide an introduction to the AtoM database. Through AtoM, you can search descriptions of the records that are preserved at the Provincial Archives of Alberta and view digitized materials that are available online.
In this video, you’ll learn:
● How to access the AtoM database: searchprovincialarchives.alberta.ca
● How records are organized
● Key features and how to browse collections and explore record descriptions
● Tips for using the search bar
● How to view available digitized materials
● How to find file lists and item numbers needed to request materials for viewing in person at the Provincial Archives of Alberta
What you’ll see in the tutorial:
This video includes demonstrations and examples of how to search the database. You’ll also learn how to identify who created the records, when they were created, and how to request archival materials for viewing in the PAA’s Reading Room.
Why visit the Provincial Archives of Alberta?
● Explore historic records including photographs, maps, newspapers, audiovisual recordings, records from the Government of Alberta, private records from donors, and more.
● Our collections document the events and stories that shaped Alberta and its diverse communities.
Need help with your search?
If your search is not yielding results or for assistance, we encourage you to contact the Provincial Archives of Alberta. Our staff are here to support your research and help you make the most of the resources available.
Access the Provincial Archives of Alberta AtoM database: searchprovincialarchives.alberta.ca
Plan your visit today: provincialarchives.alberta.ca
Have questions? Contact us directly — we’re here to help! paa@gov.ab.ca
Like, Share & Subscribe to learn more about Alberta’s history and how to access archival records.
Discover Alberta’s documentary heritage using Access to Memory (AtoM), the Provincial Archives of Alberta’s online database. Whether you're a student, community researcher, academic, family historian or simply curious about Alberta’s past, this tutorial will provide an introduction to the AtoM database. Through AtoM, you can search descriptions of the records that are preserved at the Provincial Archives of Alberta and view digitized materials that are available online.
In this video, you’ll learn:
● How to access the AtoM database: searchprovincialarchives.alberta.ca
● How records are organized
● Key features and how to browse collections and explore record descriptions
● Tips for using the search bar
● How to view available digitized materials
● How to find file lists and item numbers needed to request materials for viewing in person at the Provincial Archives of Alberta
What you’ll see in the tutorial:
This video includes demonstrations and examples of how to search the database. You’ll also learn how to identify who created the records, when they were created, and how to request archival materials for viewing in the PAA’s Reading Room.
Why visit the Provincial Archives of Alberta?
● Explore historic records including photographs, maps, newspapers, audiovisual recordings, records from the Government of Alberta, private records from donors, and more.
● Our collections document the events and stories that shaped Alberta and its diverse communities.
Need help with your search?
If your search is not yielding results or for assistance, we encourage you to contact the Provincial Archives of Alberta. Our staff are here to support your research and help you make the most of the resources available.
Access the Provincial Archives of Alberta AtoM database: searchprovincialarchives.alberta.ca
Plan your visit today: provincialarchives.alberta.ca
Have questions? Contact us directly — we’re here to help! paa@gov.ab.ca
Like, Share & Subscribe to learn more about Alberta’s history and how to access archival records.








