For thousands of years, Indigenous people across Turtle Island have served as the caretakers of our natural surroundings. They continue to maintain a powerful spiritual connection with Mother Earth through culture and sovereignty. Burlington Public Library strives to respect that culture and sovereignty by building relationships, amplifying Indigenous voices, and advancing education and healing.
The Library offers collections on Indigenous history and culture, books by Indigenous authors, and educational programs in collaboration with Indigenous organizations and presenters. We aim to draw on traditional Indigenous knowledge and experiences to guide how we fulfill our role as a community resource for learning and connection.
Reverence for the Land
Burlington as we know it today is rich in history and modern traditions of many First Nations, the Métis, and Urban Indigenous residents from across Turtle Island who now call this place home. Burlington Public Library acknowledges the Treaty Lands of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation as well as the Traditional Territory of the Haudenosaunee, Huron-Wendat and Anishinabek peoples, which is mutually covered by the Dish with One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant, an agreement between the Iroquois Confederacy, the Ojibway and other allied Nations to peaceably share and care for the resources around the Great Lakes.
For generations, Indigenous communities have upheld the belief that land is a relative, not a possession, caring for the earth and waters of Turtle Island and embodying principles of reciprocity and respect. We honour their timeless connection with the land, water, and sky, recognize their enduring stewardship, and acknowledge our shared responsibility to sustain and protect the earth.
Through our collections, programs, and partnerships, Burlington Public Library seeks to amplify Indigenous voices and perspectives, providing opportunities for our community to engage in dialogue, education, and healing. We invite everyone to reflect on their relationship with our natural surroundings and to take meaningful steps to foster respect and understanding.
Indigenous Resources
Learn more about Indigenous history, the harms of colonization, and the path to healing. These links direct you to local and national information and resources on topics from forced assimilation to Indigenous-led advocacy.
Local and Regional
- Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation: website
- Six Nations of the Grand River: website
- Grandmother’s Voice Knowledge Centre: teachings, insights and resources rooted in Indigenous wisdom
- Woodland Cultural Centre: preserving, promoting and strengthening Indigenous language, culture, art and history; bringing the story of the Hodinohsho:ni people of the Eastern Woodlands to life through innovative exhibitions and programs.
- Halton Community Services Directory: Services for Indigenous Peoples
- Indigenous Projects and Partnerships in Burlington: City of Burlington website
- Building meaningful relationships with Indigenous Communities: Halton Region website
Ontario and Canada
BPL’s Indigenous Stories & Programs
Browse the Library’s collections and take part in programs that inform, inspire, and connect.
Honouring Indigenous History Month
All BPL programs and events are free. You do not need a library card to attend, but you may need to register in advance.
Gathering Voices Community Circle
- Date & Time: Wednesday, June 10, 6:30-8pm
- Location: New Appleby Branch, 5151 New Street (just east of New Street & Appleby Line intersection)
Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members are welcome to join the monthly Gathering Voices Community Circle hosted by Grandmother's Voice. The gathering is a space for reflection, conversation, culture, healing, and belonging. Registration is not required.
Indigenous History & Two Row Wampum
- Date & Time: Thursday, June 18, 7-8pm
- Location: Central Branch, 2331 New Street (just west of New Street & Guelph Line intersection)
A presentation by Indigenous educator and historian Rick Hill and professor Daniel Coleman, two of the multiple authors of Deyohahá:ge: Sharing the River of Life, on the history and significance of the Two Row Wampum and how its teachings of peace, friendship, and mutual respect continue to offer guidance for building stronger relationships today. Register to attend this author talk.
Books
Borrow books by Indigenous authors and illustrators, about Indigenous experiences, and featuring Indigenous languages:
- Indigenous stories and history with book recommendations from BPL staff
- Booklist: Indigenous Futurism and Speculative Fiction
- Booklist: HER Stories: Indigenous Feminism
- Booklist (Children’s Books): Together in Orange
- Books in Indigenous languages including Anishinaabemowin, Cree, Inuktitut, Lillooet, and Mohawk
- Children’s books in Indigenous languages including Anishinaabemowin, Cree, Dogrib, Inuinnaqtun, Inuktitut, Mi'kmaw, and Ojibwa