Indigenous Services

Our journey towards understanding Indigenous history, culture and practices has only begun. Mâmawô ayâwin, meaning “all being together” in Plains Cree, reflects EPL's efforts to bring Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples together to build community. Join a class, attend an event, or borrow materials and let's learn together.

Elders in ResidenceElders in Residence

Through EPL's Elders in Residence program, Elders provide support and cultural connection through various programs and activities. 
EPL's Elders in Residence program provides support and cultural connection.

Indigenous: Featured

EPL Guest Picks: Talk Treaty to Us

Crystal and Sarah’s Talk Treaty to Me invites learning on treaties, land, and our roles in Canada for Indigenous History Month.

Indigenous Reads for Elementary-Aged Kids

Thoughtful reads on land, rights, and history—adult titles first, with engaging picks for younger readers below.

Voices of the Land

Amplifying Indigenous-led stories in Alberta. A digital space that supports communities to share and celebrate Indigenous perspectives.

Mâmawô ayâwin

Libraries have long been community gathering places for people and ideas. EPL offers open, inviting and comfortable spaces that provide refuge, comfort and community for all Edmontonians. At the Library, customers can pursue solo endeavours, whether reading, study or work, or connect with others, whether family, friends, colleagues or the community at large.

EPL also serves as connector, actively bringing diverse groups together, whether in person or online. We promote dialogue, increasing understanding and inspiring change.

It is in this spirit that we developed Mâmawô ayâwin.

Mâmawô ayâwin means “all being together” in Nehiyawewin (Plains Cree). The name is a reflection of EPL’s intention to bring Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples together to learn, discuss and celebrate under various topics.

Following in the footsteps of PÎYÊSÎW WÂSKÂHIKAN, EPL’s Indigenous gathering space at the new Stanley A. Milner Library, Mâmawô ayâwin also uses the Indigenous language to bring visibility to Indigenous languages within EPL.

We look forward to gathering with you, in person and online, as we continue the conversation about our kinship to each other and to the land.

About the Image

Recognizing the powerful role of imagery in storytelling, EPL felt it was crucial that customers see the Indigenous community reflected in the visuals associated with the Mâmawô ayâwin series. That’s why we commissioned local artist Lance Cardinal of Bigstone Cree Nation, Treaty 8 territory, to create the image that will be used across all Mâmawô ayâwin promotional materials.

The Inspiration

Check It Out

Indigenous - Languages Carousel

Suggested Reading

Latest Booklists

Indigenous - Suggested Reading

Resources

Indigenous: Resources

Gathering, Listening, and Sharing in Winter

Celebrate winter storytelling at EPL. Join Stories of the Land this February to listen, learn, and connect through Indigenous voices.

How the City Commemorates the Day

Discover how the city honours residential school survivors, the children who never returned, and their families. Image: Curiocity.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Read about the history of this important day and the various resources EPL has to help guide you in your learning.
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