Every November we take the time to celebrate the traditions, languages and stories of Native American and Alaska Native communities and ensure their rich histories and contributions continue to thrive with each passing generation. Some of the indigenous peoples of Santa Clara County include the Ohlone peoples, the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe, the Tamien Nation, and the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band, to name a few. We celebrate the culture and heritage of these remarkable Americans who deeply enrich the quality and character of our Nation.
The History of Native American Heritage Month
The roots of Native American Heritage Month stretch back to the early 20th century, when Dr. Arthur C. Parker, a Seneca Indian, championed a dedicated day to honor Native American contributions. New York was the first state to recognize "American Indian Day" in 1916. In 1976, President Gerald Ford proclaimed a week-long observance, and in 1990, President George H.W. Bush officially designated November as Native American Indian Heritage Month. This month-long celebration honors the rich history, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of Indigenous peoples to the United States.
Join us to celebrate Native American and Indigenous history and culture by reading a book on Native American communities, exploring biography and history online resources, or by attending our library programs!
Attend our Author Talk with D.M. Rowell, author of the Mud Sawpole Mystery series
Sunday, November 2nd, 2-3:30 pm at Gilroy Library
Monday, November 3rd, 7-8:30 pm at Saratoga Library
Wednesday, November 12th, 7-8:30 pm at Los Altos Library
Tuesday, November 18th, 7-8:30 pm at Morgan Hill Library
Book Clubs featuring works by Native American Authors
Monday, November 3rd, 7-8:30 pm: Mystery Book Club at the Saratoga Library
Wednesday, November 5th, 7-8:30 pm: After Dinner Book Club at Morgan Hill Library
Amah Mutsun: A Discussion with Chairman Lopez
Morgan Hill Library, November 5th, 5:30-6:30 pm
Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley Community Table
Thursday, November 13th, 10 am -12 pm at Morgan Hill Library
Friday, November 14th, 10 am-12 pm at Morgan Hill Library
Saturday, November 15th, 10-10:45 am at Gilroy Library
Native American Song and Dance Celebration
Saturday, November 15th, 11 am -12 pm at Gilroy Library
Saturday, November 15th, 2-3 pm at Morgan Hill Library
Sunday, November 16th, 2-3 pm at Saratoga Library
Tuesday, November 18th, 7-8 pm at Los Altos Library
Sunday, November 23rd, 11 am-12 pm at Cupertino Library
Staff Picks
Explore these picture books and non-fiction books to learn more about Native American history and traditions.
This book list features fiction, non-fiction, and graphic novel titles by and/or about Native American, American Indian, Indigenous, and First Nations authors and characters.
Celebrate Indigenous authors by checking out one of these titles at your local library!
