When we enter any Kitchener Public Library location, whether to work or to play, it’s important for us to remember that our libraries are on Indigenous land. Here in Kitchener, our libraries are situated on the traditional lands of the Chonnonton, Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee. This land is part of the Haldimand Tract which was promised to the Haudenosaunee Six Nations and other Indigenous allies in 1784.
At the beginning of autumn, there are two significant dates: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30 and First Nation Public Library Week during the first week of October. On National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we honour the victims, survivors and loved ones that were impacted by residential schools. During the first week of October, we are charged with remembering and supporting the 37 public libraries in First Nation communities in Ontario. We also honour the First Nation librarians who work hard to bring amazing programs and services to their communities.
Kitchener Public Library Resources
Upcoming Programs
Indigenous Sharing Circles with Kelly Welch
Tuesday, October 15 at 7 p.m. at Central Library
Saturday, October 26 at 2 p.m. at Country Hills Library
Tuesday, November 19 at 7 p.m. at Central Library
Tuesday, December 10 at 7 p.m. at Central Library
Indigenous Food Tasting Workshop
Thursday, November 28 at 6:30 p.m. at Grand River Stanley Park Library
#hopeandhealingcanada Art Installation at Central Library
Available to view on Level 2 until Thursday, October 31
Curated Reading Lists
We've created reading lists to highlight the Indigenous voices in Kitchener Public Library's collection. Browse these lists to immerse yourself in great storytelling and honour Indigenous experiences.
- National Day for Truth and Reconciliation list for children and list for teens and adults
- 2024 First Nation Communities READ longlist for children and longlist for teens and adults
First Nation Communities READ is an organization that celebrates the very best of Indigenous literature across Turtle Island. Each year, they release longlists of nominated titles and award the PMC Indigenous Literature Awards.
Virtual Library Resources
Our Virtual Library has hundreds of online resources you can access anytime, anywhere. Use your library card to access unique databases and apps. We've highlighted a few Indigenous resources from the Virtual Library that you won't want to miss.
- The National Film Board has a selection of films about the tragic impact of residential schools in Canada. Learn about residential schools through short films and documentaries on the Residential School Channel. You can also check out their Indigenous Cinema, a collection of Indigenous-made films.
- CBC Corner is a one-of-a-kind portal to discover Canadian content, including Indigenous content. You can also browse the Indigenous Stories collection on CBC Gem.
First Nation Public Library Week
This year First Nation Public Library Week runs from Tuesday, October 1 to Friday, October 4. This is a great opportunity to celebrate the importance of First Nation libraries and resources. Ontario Library Service is offering a variety of programs that you can attend online.
Elder's Panel - Creation Stories from Across the Territory
Tuesday, October 1 at 10 a.m.
First Nation Communities READ Award Ceremony
Thursday, October 3 at 11 a.m.
First Nation Communities READ Author Talk
Friday, October 4 at 10 a.m.
Support Resources
Help and support is available to those who need it.
- National Residential School Crisis Line is a 24-hour national crisis line for residential school survivors and their families. Access this service by phone at 1-866-925-4419.
- Hope for Wellness Helpline offers 24-hour counselling and crisis intervention for Indigenous people. Access this service online or by phone at 1-855-242-3310.
- Talk 4 Healing offers 24-hour help, support and resources to Indigenous women in Ontario. Access this service online or by phone at 1-855-554-HEAL (4325).