Port Colborne library highlights Indigenous authors

Since June is National Indigenous History Month the Port Colborne library is making it easier to read their stories by making Indigenous authors easier to find.

The library went through the 75 First Nations Communities Read Award longlisted nominees. Weighing their options, the library bought select titles to exhibit for the for the month.

Goodminds.com, a First Nations family-owned business “passionate about Indigenous education,” sold the library the new books. Meanwhile a Niagara Investment in Culture grant, with support from the Niagara Region funded the purchase alongside the Port Colborne Historical and Marine Museum.

“The Board’s vision is to empower, enrich and educate. The grant not only served to enhance our collections, but helps us help our user communities learn more about the invaluable contributions of Indigenous Peoples by expanding access to the works of Indigenous authors,” said Director of Library Services Susan Therrien.

Starting tomorrow, June 21 National Indigenous Peoples Day the library will be hosting a Storywalk featuring Danielle Daniel’s Sometimes I Feel Like a Fox.

This award-winning children’s book introduces readers to the Annishinabe concept of totem animals through poetry and accompaining pictures.

A story walk is a socially distanced event that places each page of a book, blown up like a poster, along a path. Families can read the book as they walk through the park.

The walk will be on display from June 21 to August 27. The book is also available for lending from the library.

National Indigenous History Month “is an opportunity to recognize the unique cultures, traditions, communities and histories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples,” said Port Colborne.

The Month “invites Indigenous Peoples to celebrate their diverse cultures, languages, and histories in the spirit of pride and preservation. For non-Indigenous Canadians, it is an opportunity to learn and show recognition of the role Indigenous Peoples have played and continue to play in shaping Canada,” they elaborated.