Elder in Residence FAQs

  • General Questions

    Elders can help with connecting you to culture and ceremony, but they are not counsellors. They are integral community members that can guide you in your cultural learning and connect you to the larger community. 

    Please respect there are some areas of Indigenous history, spirituality, and culture that Elders are not comfortable sharing due to protocols or the sensitive nature of the information. 

    Protocol is a traditional set of rules or etiquette that demonstrates respect for the Elder. When seeking knowledge from an Elder, learners present the Elder with an offering of tobacco or another gift and make their request.

    Please email the Indigenous Services Team at IndigenousServicesTeam@epl.ca or Elders in Residence Program at EIR@epl.ca

    Request a Meeting Form - Request a Meeting | Edmonton Public Library 

    EPL’s Elders in-residence work out of PÎYÊSÎW WÂSKÂHIKAN in the Stanley A. Milner Library (downtown) only. Individuals or groups can submit a request to meet with an Elder. Requests should be submitted at a minimum of two weeks in advance. 

    Kokum Lorette will accept protocol such as tobacco, however, if someone cannot provide it, they will not be turned away.

    Tobacco, one cigarette is good, a meter of Print (solid colour broadcloth) or other culturally specific items that you were taught.

    You can request protocol for your appointment or Ceremony by emailing eir@epl.ca

    Yes, we ask you to fill out the online form, so the Elder is best prepared for your visit. This form is confidential between the program support and the Elder.

    You may be asked follow-up questions via email if more information or clarification is needed.

    We encourage both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples to request one-on-one meetings to aid in their cultural connection, gain understanding, or seek cultural guidance.

    • We prioritize meetings with Indigenous individuals or partnered organizations and referrals.

    At this time, we do not accept:

    • Inquiries from students for academic assignments. We would encourage you to reach out the Indigenous Student Services at your institution and their Elders are in residence.
    • Inquires based on business ventures and/or events happening outside of the scope of the Edmonton Public Library.