Honouring Indigenous Heritage in the R.P. Bell Library Renewal
The R.P. Bell Library stands within Mi鈥檏ma鈥檏i, the unceded and ancestral territory of the Mi'kmaq and we have a responsibility to respect this territory. The library鈥檚 renovation is guided by a deep commitment to Indigenous engagement, presence, and representation. These principles are shaping a vision for the library as a place of respect, celebration, and inclusion of diverse histories and perspectives.
Last spring, the RPBCIL project team facilitated a Talking Circle with an Indigenous Advisory Circle, bringing together knowledge keepers, Elders, faculty, staff, students, and alumni from the Mi鈥檏maq community. These gatherings provided an opportunity to share the design of the library and to listen to insights, feedback, and perspectives from Mi鈥檏maq and other Indigenous voices.
These conversations revealed powerful ways to incorporate Mi鈥檏maq culture into the library鈥檚 design.
Key values and ideas emerging from these conversations include:
- Honouring storytelling as a vital tool for learning and healing.
- Celebrating Mi鈥檏maq art and symbology.
- Creating a library that welcomes the community and gathering and fosters connection and inclusion.
- Reflecting the centrality of water, inspired by the Bay of Fundy.
Through collaboration with Two Row Architect (TRA) and the Indigenous Talking Circle, several key Indigenous-inspired concepts will be incorporated into the new design of the library:
Tide tracker of the Bay of Fundy
A dynamic feature connecting the space to the rhythms and significance of the Bay.
Traditional Basketry in the enclosed Breezeway
Paying homage to Mi鈥檏maq artistry through lighting inspired by traditional basketry.
Mi鈥檏maq ornamental etching doorway
A striking entrance design that grounds the library in Mi鈥檏maq culture and an East Coast identity.
Atrium ceiling 8-Point Mi'kmaq Star
Featuring a Mi鈥檏maq star motif inspired by quillwork, its appearance will shift with the viewer鈥檚 perspective, light, and seasons.
These elements will be brought to life in collaboration with Indigenous and Mi'kmaq artists. The project will continue to engage Indigenous voices, ensuring that heritage, knowledge, and community remain central to the space. We are excited to share more details as progress unfolds.
If you have questions, feel free to reach out at Libraryinnovation@mta.ca.
