First Nations

First Nation Public Libraries are eligible for all services provided by SOLS, and in addition receive specialized support through a special Ministry of Culture grant.  This support focuses on assisting First Nations in the development of library services and to communicate with organizations concerned with the development of library service to Aboriginal people, including the Ontario Library Association (OLA), other governments and the private sector.  Specific initiatives include:

• Consulting on public library related issues to First Nation library staff and band councils, as well as to non-native libraries.
• Supporting the implementation of Our Way Forward.
• Assisting in the organization of First Nations Public Library Week.
• Coordinating the First Nation Communities Read program.
• Organizing First Nations Gatherings.
• Coordinating the Libraries helping Libraries program.
• Assisting with Friends of Ontario's First Nation Public Libraries Honour Program.
• Developing the First Nations Reading Circles Program.

Further information may be found on the First Nations Resources Clearinghouse page.

Please contact Patty Lawlor for advice or assistance on First Nations matters.