Ādisōke

In 2016, the Ottawa Public Library (OPL) and Library and Archives Canada (LAC) began an innovative partnership to create a new, combined library and community facility that will feature shared and unique spaces between both institutions. To truly become a shared space for all people in Canada, the partners wanted a brand and visual identity established before the building opens in 2026.

From public engagement feedback, as well as collaborative discussions between OPL, LAC, City of Ottawa and the Anishinābe Algonquin Host Nation, Spruce created a brand that articulated the unique values and vision of this landmark facility. The facility was named Ādisōke, which means “storytelling” in the Anishinābemowin Algonquin language, to reflect how Indigenous Peoples have always shared their knowledge, culture and history across generations through stories. This inspired the tagline—“Stories live here.”—which grounds the brand in a sense of place and acknowledges the past, present and future stories at the heart of Ādisōke.

The visual identity was inspired by the natural world. River stones complement the curvatures of the facility’s iconic roof and serve as the main design element to represent the power of flowing water that shape the land, a similar force to the power of stories that shape our world. The unique colour palette was also inspired by the surrounding environment, chosen for its ability to evoke wonder and creativity while remaining grounded.

The brand was shared with the public in October 2023 with a new website and video.