Unsettling the Future by Uncovering the Past: Decolonizing Academic Libraries and Librarianship

Abstract

Canada is at an interesting point in its history, where the atrocious assimilation practices that were in place until the mid-1990s are being acknowledged in the hopes for a better relationship between Canada’s Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Both the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report, and the Canadian Federation of Library Associations/Federation Canadienne des Associations de Bibliotheques (CFLA/FCAB)’s report from its Truth and Reconciliation Committee (n.d.) recognize the significant role of education needed to address changes. Where do academic libraries fit into this? I first discuss the colonial history of libraries, as extensions of education institutions, followed by a look at how library and information science (LIS) curriculum falls short in preparing students for working with Indigenous peoples and Indigenous resources. Finally, I examine how libraries can decolonize their services. Canadian academic library staff cannot continue to be so ill-equipped to serve Indigenous students and faculty.