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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.

This panel session will share the process and outcomes of a collaboration between the Libraries and the Academic and Technical Writing Program (ATWP) at UVic. The panelists will discuss how librarians and ATWP administrators have developed a shared lesson plan with consistent intended learning outcomes for students in library ATWP sessions, and how the Libraries are working to encourage a consistent library instruction style that emphasizes active, participatory learning. We’ l l discuss the tensions and challenges of navigating changes in both the Libraries’ instruction program as well as within ATWP, as well as the opportunities we have for developing a shared pedagogical approach and connecting the Libraries more effectively with campus curriculum planning and strategic enrollment management.

GVPL’s Healthy Communities portfolio frames the library as an information hub for key health issues that impact our communities. Mental health, particularly for caregivers and children, has been one of the key health issues throughout the pandemic that our patrons have struggled with. In this lightning talk, hear about three recent displays at GVPL’s Central branch that were designed in response to community need for mental health resources during challenging times. We’ l l tell you how the displays came together, what themes and library resources were highlighted, and how the displays were received by our patrons.