Jena Band of Choctaw Indians

The Jena Band of Choctaw Indians has recently secured a dedicated space for its Tribal Library, allowing for improvements of services to Tribal Members of all ages. The additional space will also include a Research Center, which will host computers with internet access. In addition, the Tribe's digital archive materials, including historic photos, documents, and language information will be made available, digitally, to Tribal Members for the first time. The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the following needs within the Tribe: 1) Internet Access. 2) The necessity of fluent Choctaw Language speakers. 3) The necessity of our Tribal population being aware of Choctaw history and culture. 4) A safe, inviting space for Tribal Members to have a quality and improved Tribal Library. The Jena Band of Choctaw Indians' Tribal Library Enhancement and Re-Opening project, will allow the Tribe to purchase much needed Tribal Library and Research Center equipment, shelving, books, and seating for comfortable reading and use. Providing internet access in this educational space is a priority of the Tribal Council, along with increasing the references in the Jena Band of Choctaw Indians' Tribal Library and allowing access to critical, digitized Choctaw Language and historical information.