THE BATTLEFORDS - The North Battleford Public Library recently announced a slate of events to celebrate Saskatchewan’s 20th Aboriginal Storytelling Month with an evening of storytelling.
“It’s important for us to recognize aboriginal storytelling month in Saskatchewan because storytelling for Indigenous people is a very important custom that’s been used to teach others cultural traditions and share knowledge,” Colin Evans, head librarian, told the News-Optimist.
On Feb. 16, at 7 p.m., Curtis Peeteetuce, playwright and sound designer, is joining the library for an evening of storytelling and conversations.
The library’s inaugural Indigenous Book Club will bring Richard Van Camp’s novel, Gather: On Storytelling, to the library on Feb. 26, at 6 p.m., which Evans finds interesting, considering February is Aboriginal Storytelling Month.
“Ergo, it’s perfect to celebrate storytelling month,” Evans added.
Copies of Gather: On Storytelling are available at the front desk.
Then, on Feb. 25, from 2 to 4 p.m., Métis crafter Brenda Belanger will join the library for a fun-filled afternoon instructing children on how to make Indigenous crafts.
Snacks and refreshments will be provided.
“We want to, of course, support our First Nations, Métis and Inuit storytellers and recognize the oral traditions that have been passed down for generations,” Evans added.
The library feels that it’s essential to collaborate with Indigenous partners to enrich the community by promoting library services and as well, helping Indigenous people to tell their stories to a diverse population.
“We’re very excited about (the events).”
Next month, the library will be having Michelle Good come out and talk about her book, Five Little Indians.
“...we’re really excited about that as well.”
For more information on upcoming events, visit the North Battleford Public Library’s Facebook page.
