If you've visited the Indigenous Children’s Space at Millennium Library lately, you likely noticed it looks different. The space, Ah kha koo gheesh (Groundhog Place ~ children emerge from learning), was under renovations since last fall, but is now ready to welcome Winnipeg’s youngest readers.
"Ah kha koogheesh is a unique highlight of the Children’s Services area at Millennium Library," said Karin Borland, Manager of Library Services. "This space celebrates Indigenous cultures and is a gathering spot for children and families."
The area is home to the children’s Indigenous collections and programming has included drumming, workshops, storytelling, and concerts.
"Ah kha koo gheesh was originally created when the renovated Millennium Library opened in 2005," said Borland.
The area was due for a renovation as the well-loved space had become worn.
The project was designed by Destiny Seymour and Mamie Griffith from Woven Collaborative, an Indigenous-led design studio based in Winnipeg. Seymour is no stranger to Millennium Library. Her work can be seen on the second floor in the renovated Indigenous area and some of her artwork was featured in the old children’s space.
"It’s always so fun to design for kids because you want to see what kind of play areas you can create," said Seymour.
The renovated area incorporates a natural forest colour palate using tones of greens and browns. It features a star blanket design in the carpeting and a medicine wheel in the flooring by the Reading Garden windows.
The toddler and baby area features a large tree with a bench, hanging canopy, and plush carpet play area within the oval.
Seymour used a locally designed Métis floral beadwork pattern for the sofas and moveable drum stools
"It’s time to take beadwork patterns out of the museum and really celebrate them and get kids talking about them and seeing them," said Seymour, adding that was something important for her to include as a mom of two.
Other elements include curved interactive bookshelves with wild strawberry plants and flowers carved into the panel at eye level for children and paths leading to the different areas, which also serve as a gathering space for activities and events.
A sit down interview with Destiny Seymour
You can see the finished project for yourself by visiting the main floor of the Millennium Library , or checking the Program & Events calendar to register for children’s events held in the space.