Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate

The Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate (people) of the Lake Traverse Reservation’s Sisseton Wahpeton College (SWC) Wowapi Opahi Oyanke (WOO) Public Library & Archives will build community through the enhancement of their library staff via hands-on training in research methodology, the implementation of cultural programming with culture & language fun night, the acquisition of new materials, and monthly health awareness promotions. Grant funds will not only increase capacity for the future growth of the library but will maintain library community programming services and improve assessment of its growth as well. Funds will also be used towards the hiring of a new librarian and the training of WOO staff in the day-to-day programming and operations of a community library. Funds will cultivate youth interest in the language and culture of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate in connecting elders with student learner and apprentices via monthly Dakota Iapi Voices of Our Ancestors (VOA) programming.