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.
June is National Indigenous History Month. It's a great time to start your learning journey. Learn with us this month, and all year long — and don't forget to join us in-person to celebrate the cultures and traditions of the Indigenous peoples of Treaty 7.
In the Summer of 2021, documentary filmmaker Eli Hirtle visited the Breaker family in Siksika to learn about a language institute that they are building. The screening of this film will be followed by a panel discussion and Q&A with Hirtle.
Saturday, June 4, 2022
Join us to celebrate the launch of National Indigenous History Month with a mini powwow.
Thursday, June 2, 2022
Friday, June 24, 2022
Join us for a screening of "The Road," "Shadows in Time" and "A Light in…
Tuesday, June 21, 2022
Thursday, June 2, 2022
Tuesday, May 17, 2022
We are currently seeking out established and emerging artists, as well as knowledgeable community members, to support the growth of the Indigenous art at the Library. Consider applying.
What is a land acknowledgment? Children, caregivers, and educators can find out by practicing this simple statement, including gestures.
Watch the Video
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.
Learn about the Treaty 7 Language Books collection
View both traditional and contemporary art installations by Indigenous artists at Central, Crowfoot, Forest Lawn, Saddletowne, Seton, Signal Hill, and Shawnessy libraries. Supported by Suncor Energy Foundation.
View Indigenous Placemaking
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.
Get startedIn the virtual program Napi's World: Stories and Teachings from the Land, grades K – 6 can learn from Elders, knowledge keepers, Treaty 7 authors, illustrators, performers, and Library staff as they share diverse perspectives, teachings, and ways of knowing of First Nations, Métis and Inuit people living in Alberta.
Your Library is committed to providing exceptional experiences to all residents of Mohkinstsis and surrounding area. For this reason, all residents of Alberta Indigenous communities and Métis settlements can receive their Library card for free, regardless of where they live.
As part of this commitment, the Library has released two limited edition Library cards featuring family photographs of Tsuut’ina artist Glenna Cardinal, who was previously denied a free Library card before they were made freely accessible to Indigenous communities across Alberta.
These cards are available to new and existing members. Ask a staff member at your Library about switching your card to this new design at no cost.
Indigenous
Language holds stories, histories, and connections, and contributes to one’s identity and sense of belonging. This list celebrates the revitalization of the traditional languages of Treaty 7 Nations.
Indigenous
These Indigenous poets write about their life experiences, perspectives, identity, and the roots of poetry in their cultures.
Indigenous
By taking a moment to be thankful for the land we share, settlers and Indigenous people alike have the chance to connect with each other.
Indigenous
This list is packed with exciting genre novels and anthologies infused with the talent of Indigenous authors.
Indigenous
These books by Indigenous authors celebrate Indigenous identity, language and experience. For Grades 1–6.
INDIGENOUS
Lee Maracle was one of the first Indigenous writers to be published in Canada. Maracle empowered Indigenous women through stories and is remembered as a mentor, activist, and community builder.
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.
In the Elders’ Guidance Circle, individuals, small groups, and students, can meet with Elders to explore topics relating to culture, history, and reconciliation.
The Elders’ Guidance Circle is supported by Suncor Energy Foundation with Elders’ honoraria provided by the Calgary Foundation.
Individuals and small groups, including students, can meet with an Elder to explore topics relating to culture, history, and reconciliation.
The Elders’ Guidance Circle is supported by Suncor Energy Foundation with Elders’ honoraria provided by the Calgary Foundation.
Request a meetingVoices 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.
Learning the truth is an important first step for all Canadians toward healing our community. Libraries have an important role to play in providing resources and awareness around Truth and Reconciliation. It is our duty and commitment to Indigenous peoples and communities.
Calgary Public Library welcomed its first Indigenous Services team member in 2017. This growing team focuses on Indigenous engagement, ensuring Library programs and services are designed around community needs.
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.
