Indigenous Services

We acknowledge with gratitude, respect, and reciprocity that Wood Buffalo Regional Library is located in the traditional territory of the Treaty 8 signatories which include Mikisew Cree First Nation, Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, Tthebatthie Denesųłiné Nation, Fort McKay First Nation, Chipewyan Prairie First Nation, and Fort McMurray 468 First Nation. The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is also the traditional homeland of Chard Métis Nation, Conklin Métis Local, Fort Chipewyan Métis Nation, Fort McKay Métis Nation, Willow Lake Métis Nation, and Fort McMurray Métis Local #1935.

Wood Buffalo Regional Library is committed to showcasing Indigenous brilliance and success. All our lives are enriched by the kindness, generosity, creativity, and strength of the Nations who have been here since time immemorial. We serve the community at Nistawâyâw (Cree), Ełídlį Kuę́ (Dene), the place where the three rivers meet. We are committed to sharing the stories of this region, honouring the Knowledge Keepers and recognizing our shared responsibilities as treaty people to move forward on the path of Truth and Reconciliation.

Wood Buffalo Regional Library is committed to listening to, learning from, and building relationships with local Indigenous communities and providing resources that support the region in learning more about Truth and Reconciliation, as outlined in the Calls to Action.

We aim to provide an accessible, safe learning space for the entire community, bringing people together to expand their awareness of Indigenous history, culture, and way of life.

Programs are offered in collaboration with local Indigenous Elders, leaders, and organizations, who we thank for their generosity and knowledge.

Indigenous programs are sponsored by

Indigenous Cultural Corner

The Indigenous Cultural Corner is a space for people of all ages to gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of Indigenous history and culture. The collection highlights and honours the many unique and diverse Indigenous experiences of Turtle Island through a wide variety of formats. From well-established authors like Tomas King, Richard Wagamese, and Louise Erdrich, to the budding talents of Stephen Graham Jones and Tanya Tagaq, the Indigenous Cultural Corner is packed with stories to be read.

The area also houses significant pieces, like the series of paintings titled “Our Families, Our Community” by Simone McLeod, a Cree-Ojibwe artist and member of the James Smith Cree Nation.

A framed Métis sash was donated by McMurray Métis in 2015. McMurray Métis generously provided an explanation of the traditional and contemporary uses for the sash within the frame as a teaching resource. The sash is used by Métis people and is also shared with two other groups: the Eastern Woodland Indians, who were the first to wear the sash in the 19th century, and French Canadians during the 1837 Lower Canadian Rebellion.

In addition to the collections in the Indigenous Cultural Corner, the space is used to hold programs, celebrations, and cultural events. The circular shape of the area creates a space that encourages discussion and openness. Next time you are in the library, come and visit!