Native American Resources at Your Library

On October 12, 1492, Christopher Columbus landed in the "New Word," probably somewhere in what we now consider the Bahamas, and claimed that land for Spain (believing he had landed in East Asia). However,  multitudes of indigenous peoples had existed in the islands, and what we now consider the United States, since well before settlement by Europeans. Due to European conquest and exploration, over the generations, many tribes have unfortunately disappeared. What remains are several federally and state recognized tribes of various sizes and location.  Fortunately, information about the culture and history of many of these tribes have been passed down and is available to us today. Below are a few resources to help you learn more about the fascinating culture and history of America's first people. 

The Encyclopedia Britannica online is a good place to start, with a well written, comprehensive article titled, "Native Americans: Indigenous Peoples of Canada and the United States."

The United States Bureau of Indian Affairs website offers information about modern legislation and issues affecting Native Americans living in the US today. 

Three books on Native American history and culture are available online anytime via Brittanica E-Stax with your Terrebonne Parish Library card. 

Infobase Ebooks has another great, always-available online resource, the Encyclopedia of the American Indian in the Twentieth Century. 

Reading diversely is important to understanding the experiences of people unlike yourself, or to see yourself reflected in others. A good place to start learning about Native American writers is Native American Writers, New Edition, edited by Harold Bloom, and available 24/7 online at Infobase. 

Looking for something a bit more tangible? Of course, the library has a wide variety of books by and about Native Americans. Check out some of the titles below, or search our catalog online to find out more.