About the community
Haida people have occupied Haida Gwaii since time immemorial. Their traditional territory includes parts of southern Alaska, the archipelago of Haida Gwaii, and its surrounding waters.
Pre-contact, the Haida population was in the tens of thousands in several dozen towns throughout the islands. During the time of contact its population fell to about 600, due to introduced diseases such as measles, typhoid, and smallpox. Today, Haida people make up half of the 5,000 people living on the islands. Haida reside throughout the islands but are concentrated in two main centres, Old Massett at the north of Graham Island and Skidegate at the south. Besides these two communities there are 2,000 more Haida scattered throughout the world, including in Vancouver and Prince Rupert.
The Haida Nation collectively holds Title to its territories and the cultural and intellectual property rights of the Haida Nation. All people of Haida ancestry are citizens of the Haida Nation. Every Haida citizen has the right of access to all Haida Gwaii resources for cultural reasons, and for food or commerce, as reflected in the laws of the Haida Nation.
About the library
Old Massett village council operate the library, which was the third library Write to Read BC installed. Its sponsors included Rotary Club of Langley Central, and Britco Structures (now Boxx Modular).
The library officially opened in a ceremony attended by many community members and representatives of Britco and Government House. The opening was followed by a dinner in the community hall. With its books and through Internet access, the library has made a difference in Old Massett.
