Research Guides

The following research guides were compiled by Library staff to aid you with your film-related research needs. Start here for ready-made guides on a variety of popular cinema topics.

Each guide links to recommended books, subject headings, periodicals, research files, and films, as well as other miscellaneous resources that are accessible in the Film Reference Library.

If you have any questions about the research guides or the Library, please contact libraryservices@tiff.net or call 416-599-8433 ext. 2005.

The Jeffrey and Sandra Lyons Canadian Film Scholarship

TIFF encourages proposals from graduate students, scholars, researcher-creators, and artists whose project would benefit from the unique collections of the Film Reference Library. Applications were previously accepted from MA, PhD, and post-doc students exclusively. In recognition of the interdisciplinary nature of film and media research, and the diversity of methodological approaches within the field, we have expanded the eligibility requirements to include those enrolled in any master’s program who are pursuing related research.

The award aims to:

• increase access to the reference and archival collections of the Film Reference Library;
• support research and research-creation that deepens knowledge about Canadian film and media;
• and strengthen the relationship between cultural and academic institutions in pursuit of knowledge mobilization.

This scholarship provides the recipient access to the extensive resources and collections of the FRL. The successful applicant will be provided with a stipend of $1,000 CAD, a designated office space, and access to the FRL’s collections in support of their research. Applicants must be enrolled in a full-time master’s, PhD, or post-doctoral programme at an accredited post-secondary institution, submit a proposal for research or a creative project that activates the archive and deepens knowledge about Canadian film and media, and be legally eligible to work in Canada as part of studies. Applications are due annually in November.

Past Recipients
2022 - Cleo Sallis-Parchet
2021 – Denise Mok
2020 – Roshaya Rodness
2019 – Jonathan Petrychyn
2018 – Claudia Sicondolfo
2017 – Mary Arnatt
2016 – Jeremy Mathers
2015 – Catherine Quantz

See Call for Applications

Research Help

Film Reference Library staff are available to answer questions about the Library’s collections and services, assist with research inquiries, and connect you with our vast resources.

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