Each November we celebrate Native American Heritage Month. This celebration honors the significant contributions of Indigenous peoples. Our library system aims to share the rich histories and stories of these communities.
Some of the Indigenous peoples of Santa Clara County include the Ohlone. This includes the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe, the Tamien Nation, and the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band, to name a few. We celebrate the cultures and heritage of these Americans who enrich our Nation.
The History of Native American Heritage Month
The roots of Native American Heritage Month stretch back to the early 20th century. Dr. Arthur C. Parker, a Seneca Indian, came up the idea. He wanted a 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. In 1990, President George H.W. Bush officially designated November as Native American Indian Heritage Month.
Ways to Celebrate Native American Heritage Month
Join us to celebrate Native American and Indigenous history and culture. Read a book on Native American, opens a new window histories and traditions. Stream movies and tv shows by Native American creators. Explore history and biography online resources. You can also attend one of our many our library programs!
Events
- Wednesday, November 18, 9:45am-1:45pm: Ohlone Medicine Guided Hike at Long Ridge Preserve
In-Person Book Clubs featuring works by Native American Authors
- Monday, November 02, 7:00pm–8:00pm: The Berry Pickers at the Campbell Library
- Wednesday, November 04, 7:00pm–8:00pm: To the Moon and Back at the Morgan Hill Library
- Wednesday, November 18, 11:00am-12:00pm: The Lost Journals of Sacajewea at the Milpitas Library
- Thursday, November 19, 1:00pm-2:00pm: The Seed Keeper at the Saratoga Library
- Thursday, November 19, 7:30pm-8:30pm: The Lost Journals of Sacajewea at the Milpitas Library
- Tuesday, November 24, 7:00pm-8:15pm: To the Moon and Back at the Los Altos Library
Virtual Author Talks featuring works by Native American Authors
- Tuesday, November 03, 11:00am-12:00pm: with Medicine Woman Asha Frost
- Thursday, November 12, 11:00am–12:00pm: with Chef Pyet DeSpain
- Thursday, November 19, 4:00-5:00pm: with Rebecca Roanhorse
Pow-wow Dance Demonstrations
Learn about the songs, dances, art, food, and traditions of the Indigenous Peoples of America.
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Sunday, November 08, 11:00am-12:00pm, at the Saratoga Library
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Monday, November 09, 7:00pm-8:00pm, at the Los Altos Library
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Tuesday, November 10, 7:00pm-8:00pm, at the Cupertino Library
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Saturday, November 21, 11:00am-12:00pm, at the Gilroy Library
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Saturday, November 21, 2:00pm-3:00pm, at the Morgan Hill 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.
A selection of both fiction and non-fiction titles by Indigenous and Native American authors.
