TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE IN THE MAKERSPACE: INCORPORATING INDIGENOUS-LED PROGRAMS FOR STEAM SUCCESS

Are you ready to get crafty with Indigenous traditions for 21st century learning? Learn to bridge brilliant craft traditions with STEAM literacies through Indigenous-led maker programs. In 2019, Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) launched their makerspace, the Creativity Commons to the public. Staff worked to build alliances with local stakeholders such as Indigenous artists, makers and community members interested in cultivating a reclamation of culture through the library makerspace. VIRL staff worked collaboratively to develop STEAM programs for all ages such as Traditional Drum-making, Leather Craft, Textile Art for Kids, Music-making and sound production. Through an Indigenous-led approach to program delivery, libraries can better amplify indigenous voices in a reconciliatory manner.