Figures 2 & 3: These images came from Encyclopedia Britannica.

Terminology

Understanding and using respectful terminology is essential when serving Native American communities. Below is a list of key terms with further context:

• Native American / American Indian – While "Native American" is widely used, some individuals and communities prefer "American Indian" due to historical legal recognition. It's best to ask individuals how they self-identify and use specific tribal names whenever possible.
• Indigenous – A broad term encompassing Native peoples of North America, including Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. Some people prefer "Indigenous" over "Native American."
• Tribal Nation / Federally Recognized Tribe – A sovereign political entity acknowledged by the U.S. government. Some tribes are state-recognized or unrecognized, meaning federal or state governments do not officially recognize them but still maintain cultural and political identity.
• First Nations – A term used primarily in Canada, but some U.S. Indigenous communities also use it.
• Sovereignty – The inherent authority of Indigenous nations to govern themselves, separate from U.S. federal and state laws in many aspects. 
• Land Acknowledgment – A formal statement recognizing that a place operates on traditional Indigenous lands. Many institutions, including libraries, incorporate these into events, signage, and public materials.
  Two-Spirit – A term used by some Indigenous communities to describe a person who embodies both masculine and feminine spirits, often related to gender identity and roles. It is distinct from Western concepts of identities.
• (click the heading to continue to full text) 
• Reference: University of British Columbia. (n.d.). Terminology. Indigenous Foundations. https://indigenousfoundations.arts.ubc.ca/terminology/

Figure 4: The image came from Encyclopedia Britannica.

Past Native American Picture:
A glimpse into the rich heritage of Native American communities, showcasing traditional attire, ceremonies, and ways of life that have been passed down for generations.

Figure 5: The image came from Encyclopedia Britannica.

Present Native American Picture:
A modern representation of Native American identity, highlighting resilience, cultural preservation, and the dynamic blend of tradition and contemporary life.

Figure 1 & 2: This Pinterest image came from Raymond Herbert

Project Reflection 

Finding My People, Finding My Purpose: A Reflection on Serving Native Communities as a Future Librarian

Recently, I had the chance to learn more about how librarians can better serve Native American communities, and honestly, it was eye-opening, emotional, and deeply personal for me.

You see, I'm part Native American—Cherokee (Iroquoian lineage) on one side—but that part of my family has been cut off from me for most of my life. I didn't grow up with the traditions or the stories. I didn't get to sit with my elders or hear our language spoken. For a long time, that part of me was just a word, a fact I knew but didn't really understand.

So learning about Native American issues, barriers, and strengths—especially through the lens of library services—meant more to me than I can fully explain. It was like getting to know a side of myself that had always been just out of reach. I felt a sense of closure, like I found a piece of my identity I didn't even know I was missing. I also felt a new sense of responsibility and love for my people—people I'm still getting to know.

Native Americans face a lot of challenges in America today, from underfunded schools and health care to historical trauma and cultural erasure. Libraries have the potential to be safe, healing places where Native communities can grow, learn, and thrive. A library can offer educational support, a love for reading, help with independent living skills, and a space to reconnect with culture and history. But to do that, we need librarians who care, who listen, and who want to build trust.

That's where I come in.

Even though I was cut off from my Cherokee roots, I know now that I can still reconnect. I can still honor my heritage. And I can absolutely help Native communities—not just out of a sense of duty, but out of love. I want to support programs, celebrate culture, and provide resources that empower Native people of all ages. I want to be part of the healing.

This journey gave me faith that no matter how disconnected we've been, we can always come home. And for me, becoming a librarian is one way of coming home.

I'm proud of this part of me. I'm proud to be Cherokee. And I'm ready to use my heart and my skills to help my native community thrive.