The Grace Schmidt Room of Local History

PHOTOGRAPHS IN THE GSR

There is an extensive collection of photographs located in the GSR, belonging to the Kitchener Public Library and the Waterloo Historical Society. Index cards for the collection are found in the metal index card drawers on top of the vertical file cabinets.

Each photograph was assigned a “P” number when it was catalogued, and a white index card was prepared. This is the subject heading card, with one subject heading per photograph. Additional access is provided through “see” and “see also” headings, which are on the blue/green index cards.

On each white index card, you will find:

• Subject heading
• Title – with a brief description of the image
• Acc. No. – “P” number assigned to the photograph
• Coll. – the owner of the photograph is listed here, usually “KPL” or “WHS”
• Neg. No. – negative number, if applicable
• Loc. – actual location of the photograph
• Small copy of the original image

When each photograph was catalogued, a work sheet was also prepared. These are kept in binders on the shelves near the display case in the GSR, and are arranged by “P” number. Often there is more information on these sheets.

You may view a photograph by providing library staff at the Level 3 Information Desk with the “P” or “N” number and the “Location” code printed on the card.

Please note that any reproduction of photographs is governed by copyright law and restrictions may also be imposed for preservation reasons.

To order a reproduction, please refer to the “Photographic Reproduction Policy”.