A Burkeville resident's legacy of a Truth and Reconciliation library was able to live on, thanks to the help of her neighbours.
The idea to purchase a collection of books to support the community's Truth and Reconciliation journey was first put forward by longtime Burkeville resident and member of the Tsartlip Nation, Renée Robinson.
"I believe that we would only benefit from learning more about our Indigenous history, and I would be proud to be from a progressive community that seeks greater knowledge," reads a quote from Robinson in an invitation to the opening ceremony.
With the blessing and support of the Sea Island Community Association, she hit the ground running and was working with the association to set up the library until her sudden passing in 2022.
Determined to complete Robinson's project, community members were able to set up the library and officially open it to the public last month.
Retired teacher-librarian, Lorna Clare, was tapped to finish setting up the library.
"(Robinson's) sudden passing in June 2022 challenged us to complete her vision. It is our hope that, with the support of our community, Renée's legacy will continue to grow," said the Sea Island Community Association in the invitation to the opening ceremony.
The library, named "The Renée Robinson Memorial Library Honouring Indigenous Culture, Truth and Reconciliation," is nestled in a corner on the main floor of Sea Island Hall. The space was made available by the City of Richmond.
The library is a collection of 21 books by Indigenous authors purchased from Massey Books with funding from the Sea Island Community Association, and Burkeville residents are welcome to sign the books out.
Books in the collection include children's books, graphic novels, books for young adults, novels and nonfiction such as autobiographies and biographies.
The plan in the future, said Clare, is to expand the collection and grow the library.
Joan Simmons, Robinson's friend, remembers her as someone who was "full of joy and positivity to share with all who were blessed to meet her."
Robinson's love for learning and passion for books shone through the book club she started, which welcomed all even if they hadn't read the book.
"Although Renée was not able to be here in body, her spirit will forever be with this community memorial library honouring the Indigenous culture (and) bringing us all closer together," said Simmons.
"It is the hope of this library to enlighten all and thus heal divisions."
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