Tribal Libraries, Archives, and Museums: Preserving Our Language, Memory, And Lifeways

by Loriene Roy (Editor), Sarah K. Arriaga (Editor), Anjali Bhasin (Editor)

Hundreds of tribal libraries, archives, and other information centers offer the services patrons would expect from any circulation of materials, collection of singular items (such as oral histories), and public services (such as summer reading programs). What is unique in these settings is the commitment to tribal protocols and expressions of tribal lifeways—from their footprints on the land to their architecture and interior design, institutional names, signage, and special services, such as native language promotion.

This book offers a collection of articles devoted to tribal libraries and archives and provides an opportunity for tribal librarians to share their stories, challenges, achievements, and aspirations with the larger professional community. Part one introduces the tribal community library, providing context and case studies for libraries in California, Alaska, Oklahoma, Hawai'i, and in other countries. The role of tribal libraries and archives in native language recovery and revitalization is also addressed in this section. Part two features service functions of tribal information centers, addressing the library facility, selection, organization, instruction, and programming/outreach. Part three includes a discussion of the types of records that tribes might collect, legal issues, and snapshot descriptions of noteworthy archival collections. The final part covers strategic planning, advice on working in the unique environments of tribal communities, advocacy and marketing, continuing education plans for library staff, and time management tips that are useful for anyone working in a small library setting.

Genres: Native American, Professional Development

268 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2011

Reviews

[Niki · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful addition to my special libraries collection. It has inspiring information about how devoted librarians can be to the preservation of culture and heritage.

[bibliotekker Holman · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is always fun to read a book written by and about those you know. I've read it before in the past and turned to it recently for inspiration while working on a recent project. This book contains 25 essays that illuminate different aspects and fill a void in the literature. A good read that will leave you asking for a follow up book on the topic that will continue this great exploration of and conversation about Native American institutions.

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some really good chapters here. Highly recommend.