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.
The Witness Blanket is an installation by master carver Carey Newman to recognize the atrocities of the residential school era, honour the children, and symbolize ongoing reconciliation. The Witness Blanket will be on display until mid-October in the Simmons-Harvie Community Living Room, Level 4, at Central Library.
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 2023-2024 school year. Caretakers of the Land is a virtual program for grades K – 9.
What is a land acknowledgment? Children, caregivers, and educators can find out by practicing 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, Forest Lawn, Saddletowne, Seton, Signal Hill, Shawnessy and Village Square libraries. Supported by Suncor Energy Foundation.
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.
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.
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.
Celebrate the diversity of Indigenous cultures with books by First Nations, Métis and Inuit authors.
June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to celebrate and honour Indigenous people and culture.
Music by Indigenous artists who are reclaiming their culture through song.
May 5 is Red Dress Day, a day to remember murdered and missing Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA people.
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.
Learn more about the code talkers that helped turn the tide of the World Wars.
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.
