November is Native American Heritage Month, and the OLHMS Library is buzzing with activities that celebrate the stories, traditions, and history of Indigenous peoples. Students are engaging in hands-on learning experiences designed to honor and explore Native cultures across North America — including tribes local to Illinois such as the Potawatomi, Ojibwe, and Illiniwek.
Students began by researching the origins and meanings of dreamcatchers in Ojibwe culture, then expressed their creativity by coloring or crafting their own. They also had the chance to learn about various Native American tribes, using the library’s collection of books on more than 40 tribes to deepen their understanding of diverse traditions and histories.
Using the Native Land Digital map, students discovered which Indigenous nations originally lived where they do today. They wrote thoughtful Land Acknowledgment statements, recognizing and honoring the first inhabitants of this region.
Storytelling also took center stage as students read Native American legends and folktales, reflecting on the morals, lessons, and the powerful role of oral traditions in preserving culture. In art, students explored Native symbolism through a Tribal Symbol Art Project, creating pieces that represent personal values, goals, or family stories.
Throughout the library, QR codes connect students to an interactive experience — including a Native Nations research gallery walk, music and dance exploration, maps, interviews, Indigenous food and agriculture, and works by Native authors, poets, and artists.
Each activity helps students celebrate the rich heritage and lasting contributions of Native peoples, fostering respect, curiosity, and understanding throughout the month and beyond.
