It's important for all Canadians to learn the true history of Indigenous peoples. Libraries have a big role to play in helping our communities heal by providing resources about Truth and Reconciliation, as outlined in the Calls to Action and White Goose Flying Report.
You can start your own learning journey with Library resources.
Illustrations created by 2023 Indigenous Artist in Residence, Kristy North Peigan.
Multiple Library locations | June 1 — 30
June is National Indigenous History Month. Celebrate the unique cultures, traditions, and experiences of Indigenous peoples in Calgary with the Library.
Attend events and programs include storytimes, special speakers, and performances.
"Singing Back the Buffalo" Film Screening
Central Library | June 1 | 5:30 pm
A Circle of Support
Central Library | June 4 | 1:00 pm
Canada Sport Hall of Fame exhibit
Central and Shawnessy Libraries | The month of June
Music Under the Archway with Damase Elis, Jaiden Riley, and Caitlin Goulet
Central Library | June 8, 22, 29 | Multiple times
Celebrating Indigenous Sport Heroes
Central Library and online | June 12 | 11:00 am
National Indigenous Peoples' Day: The Importance of Language
Central Library | June 21 | 4:00 pm
What is a land acknowledgment? Children, caregivers, and educators can find out by practising this simple statement, including gestures
In the Children's Lodge, individuals, small groups, and students, can meet with Elders to explore topics relating to culture, history, and reconciliation. You can request a specific time to meet with the Elders, or drop-in to their open office hours.
The Elders’ Guidance Circle is supported by Suncor Energy Foundation with Elders’ honoraria provided by the Calgary Foundation.
View both traditional and contemporary art installations by Indigenous artists at Central, Crowfoot, Fish Creek, Forest Lawn, Judith Umbach, Saddletowne, Seton, Signal Hill, Shawnessy and Village Square libraries. Supported by Suncor Energy Foundation.
Calgary Public Library is excited to present the Powwow Trail 101 program, a vibrant summer dance exhibition celebrating First Nations culture and tradition.
We are seeking skilled powwow Dancers and Drummers ages 8 to Senior to participate.
Discover Indigenous programming that offers opportunities for all community members to explore the histories and cultures of Treaty 7.
Indigenous languages have long been underrepresented in literature. In 2019, the Library worked with aspiring Treaty 7 writers and illustrators to help them create children's books in their traditional languages.
Calgary Public Library is looking for experienced Indigenous Language Facilitators at Central Library. We are currently looking for Treaty 7 First Nation members; Blackfoot, Tsuut’ina, Stoney Nakoda, or members of the Cree, Métis, and Inuit communities with experience in Indigenous languages, Indigenous culture and teachings, and the way of life within their own lives. All Indigenous applications will be accepted and considered for program delivery.
Visit the Indigenous Languages Resource Centre on Level 4 at Central Library to meet with Elders, share stories under a night sky installation, view traditional items, and learn Treaty 7 languages. Check out our virtual resource centre to find helpful videos and apps to help you in your language learning.
Calgary Public Library invites Indigenous people of all nations to apply for the paid opportunity to be a facilitator for our Caretakers of the Land program for the remainder of the 2024/25 school year and into the 2025/26 school year. Caretakers of the Land is a virtual program for grades K – 6.
Animals are an important part of Inuit culture. Watch this video to learn more about these animals and how to pronounce them in Inuktut with Nuunu.
Elders, knowledge keepers, authors, illustrators, performers, and Library staff share the diverse perspectives and ways of knowing in this virtual program for grades K – 6.
Learn about these limited-edition cards, which feature family photographs of Tsuut’ina artist Glenna Cardinal, who was previously denied a Library card before they were made freely accessible to Indigenous communities across Alberta.
Voices of the Land is a collaboration between Indigenous communities and Library systems across Alberta. Add your own story or learn from your neighbours' with this virtual, shared learning space.
How do you imagine the future knowing that you've already seen the end, and how many ends can you see and still imagine a hopeful future. These Indigenous writers envision a future beyond the apocalypse, whether it is an imagined, historical, or real worl
The books in this list share the stories of the missing and murdered, but also the strength and resilience of Indigenous women fighting to heal their communities.
Music by Indigenous artists who are reclaiming their culture through song.
Celebrate the diversity of Indigenous cultures with books by First Nations, Métis and Inuit authors.
On September 30 we honour those who tell their stories.
Featured titles about Inuit ways of knowing, as discussed in a Caretakers of the Land school program.
A decade after the inception of the Idle No More movement, we honour and celebrate Indigenous resistance.
Terrifying tales by Indigenous authors, with Indigenous lore at their heart.
Partnership is critical to the Library’s approach to reconciliation. For opportunities to partner and collaborate, or to share ideas and suggestions, please contact the Indigenous Services team by email at indigenousservices@calgarylibrary.ca.
Calgary Public Library invites expressions of interest from the Indigenous community, from people who are experienced artists, performers, knowledge keepers, storytellers, presenters, crafters, and service providers.
