About the project:

Across Waterloo Region, people and institutions are seeking ways to participate in meaningful reconciliation—ways that move beyond words and into action. Without Indigenous guidance at the decision-making table, even well-meaning initiatives risk repeating patterns of exclusion, tokenism, or harm.

Kitchener Public Library (KPL) is committed to centering Indigenous voices—not only in programming and policy, but in strategy and vision. Since forming its Truth and Reconciliation Committee in 2022, KPL has implemented new protocols, waived rental fees for Indigenous communities, and developed opportunities to connect Indigenous knowledge holders with staff and the public. Now, Kitchener Public Library is preparing to take a crucial step: building a formal, respectful institutional relationship with a local Indigenous Elder to support informed, Indigenous-centered decision-making across the organization.

With support from donors like you, we can honour Indigenous leadership, embed relational accountability, and create a public library that truly reflects the responsibilities of reconciliation. Your donation helps ensure Kitchener Public Library grows into a place where Indigenous teachings shape decisions, where Elders are honoured as leaders, and where every person benefits from a library rooted in right relations, learning, and respect.

Where will the project take place:

Kitchener Public Library's bricks and mortar locations are within Kitchener, but our services reach all residents of Waterloo Region. In 2024, KPL saw 1.1 million in-person visits, and an additional 2.2 million virtual visits to online resources. KPL’s mandate is to provide a physical library location within two kilometers of every City of Kitchener resident.