June is here, and that means it's time to celebrate National Indigenous History Month—a time to honour the history, cultures, and voices of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples all across Turtle Island. At Ottawa Public Library (OPL), we’re marking the month with powerful author talks, meaningful conversations, engaging activities, and—of course—great reads!
Whether you’re looking to learn something new, share stories with your family, or simply enjoy an inspiring evening out, OPL has something for everyone. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the amazing events we have lined up that you won’t want to miss:
L’histoire oubliée avec Michel Jean (French event)
On June 26, from 7 to 8 pm, at St-Laurent Branch (515 Côté), join bestselling Innu author and journalist Michel Jean as he shares the moving story behind his novel Kukum—a deeply personal tale that brings to light the intergenerational impact of residential schools and the enduring strength of Indigenous resistance. This conversation, held in French, offers a vital opportunity to reflect.
An Evening with author Phyllis Webstad
As the founder of Orange Shirt Day and CEO of the Orange Shirt Society, Phyllis Webstad has become a national voice for truth and reconciliation. Join us on June 26, from 7 to 8 pm, at Library and Archives Canada (395 Wellington Street), for an evening of storytelling and insight as Phyllis shares her lived experience and how a simple orange shirt sparked a movement across the country.
These inspiring events are made possible through the generous support of the Friends of the Ottawa Public Library Association (FOPLA).
Also, on June 21, celebrate the Summer Solstice with OPL at Wesley Clover Parks! We’ll be on-site at the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival with our mini-Bookmobile, packed with great reads and resources for all ages. Browse, borrow, sign up for a library card, and chat with our friendly staff about OPL’s Indigenous collections and services. It’s a day of celebration, culture, and community.
Whether you're attending an event or diving into a good book, learning doesn't stop in June. Visit our Indigenous Resources page to discover booklists, digital collections, and educational materials that are available year-round.
Whether you're joining us in person, online, or out in the community, we hope you’ll be part of the celebration.