Sept. 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a time to honour the children who never returned home from residential schools, Survivors, their families and their communities. It is also a day for reflection, learning and action. This booklist offers stories and resources that deepen our understanding of Canada’s colonial history, celebrate Indigenous voices and knowledge and encourage us all to engage with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.

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Upcoming Programs and Events
Truth and Reconciliation Reading Challenge
KFPL invites readers of all ages to take part in the Truth and Reconciliation Reading Challenge, launching Sept. 30. Explore books by Indigenous authors to learn about the histories, languages, cultures and lived experiences of Indigenous Peoples.
Track your reading in Beanstack to earn badges for activities, reviews and time milestones. Each badge is an entry into the grand prize draw for an orange shirt pin beading kit. The more you read, the more chances you have to win!
Upcoming Programs and Events
October is Canadian Library Month!
All month long, libraries across Canada are raising awareness of the valuable role libraries play in Canadians’ lives. Libraries promote cultural awareness, engage in the community, provide educational programs, support freedom of expression and so much more. Books are just the beginning!
A library card starts a lifelong adventure, connecting you with everything you need to inspire learning, creativity and fun. To get your card, register online or visit a library branch.
A truth and reconciliation reading list
September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. This day acknowledges the painful legacy of residential schools and the ongoing trauma faced by survivors of these institutions and honours survivors, families, communities, and children stolen by the violence of colonialism. These books will help broaden your understanding of truth, reconciliation, and residential institutions.
Former residential school students can call 1-866-925-4419 for emotional crisis referral services and information on other supports.
Upcoming Programs and Events
Drop in for genealogy research help
Looking for help with your genealogy research? Come to one of six drop-in sessions from Oct. 4 to Nov. 15, alternating between the Central and Isabel Turner Branches. Our local history librarian and members of the Kingston Branch of Ontario Ancestors (formerly the Ontario Genealogical Society) will be on hand to answer questions and offer assistance.
The first sessions are:
- Tuesday, Oct. 4 at Central Branch, Local History Room (second floor)
- Thursday, Oct. 13 at Isabel Turner Branch, Cataraqui Room