Ādisōke, the forthcoming shared facility of the Ottawa Public Library (OPL) and Library and Archives Canada (LAC), will bring together under one roof the rich collections of a world-class public library and a national institution, bringing to life the stories and histories that unite them.
The presentation by Leslie Weir, Librarian and Archivist of Canada, and Sonia Bebbington, Chief Librarian and CEO of the OPL, will address the unique partnership between the two institutions. The building will serve as the BPO's central branch and LAC's main point of service. With shared spaces as well as unique areas specific to each institution, Ādisōke offers the opportunity to transform services and reach new audiences. With 1.7 million visitors expected, this modern, sustainable facility will become a unique destination in Canada.
The speakers will take the opportunity to highlight the close collaboration with the Algonquin host nation. While the building is erected on the traditional territory of the Anishinābeg people, the elders and members of the host Nation were key partners from the outset of the installation's conception and continue to be so to this day. Indeed, the choice of the name Ādisōke refers to the art of storytelling in the Algonquian language Anishinābemowin.
Finally, with construction well underway in preparation for opening to the general public in 2026, the speakers will present a glimpse of what the user experience will look like within the building's walls.
