The 2026 application cycle opens today for the Oklahoma Heritage Preservation Grant Program. Through this initiative, Oklahoma Historical Society funding will be awarded in four categories: collections, exhibits, programs, and capacity building. Eligible organizations that apply by Friday, October 31, have a chance to fund projects that share and preserve our state's story.

 

The application is open to non-profit historical, tribal, and municipal government organizations. A strategic plan is required to qualify. Those

without a plan can apply for grant support in developing one. Learn more about strategic plans here and visit this webpage to get started.

 

 

 

 

It's time to kick off another round of Youth Services workshops! Library staff—take advantage of these interactive trainings where you can brainstorm,  network, and prep for next year's Summer Reading theme: DINOSAURS. One of these workshops would be the perfect place to dig up programming ideas!

 

Made possible by partial funding from the Institute of Museum and Libraries Services, five workshops are available across Oklahoma.

 

	October 23: Clinton Public Library (WPLS)
	November 6: Claremore Public Library
	November 13: Enid Public Library
	November 18: Champion Public Library, Ardmore (SOLS)
	December 9: Norman Public Library East (PLS)

 

Register for a meeting close to you to find inspiration and connection. Looking for more community? Join the Oklahoma Youth Librarians (OKYL) group for news, updates, and important information about Youth Services.

Contact Trisha Hutcherson at trisha.hutcherson@libraries.ok.gov to sign up.

 

 

The 20th Annual National Friends of Libraries Week is coming up! From October 19-25, we'll be celebrating Friends groups across Oklahoma for their dedicated support. Friends of Libraries in Oklahoma (FOLIO) is a charitable organization that advocates for library services, organizes scholarships and fundraisers, and connects volunteer groups.

 

FOLIO is offering two $500 awards to Friends chapters that get their communities involved in the celebration: one for chapters serving populations under 10,000 and one for those serving over 10,000. There are so many ways to promote your local group:

• Plan a special display, membership drive, or bookmark contest.
• Convey to officials how the Friends raise funds and promote the library.
• Host an author panel discussion, author book signing, or book review.
• Hold programming each day, ending with a Staff Appreciation Dinner.
• Feature various library services on social media.

The award application and instructions are available on the FOLIO website.

To sign up, Friends groups must be FOLIO members. Apply before the November 14 deadline for a chance to win. For more activity inspiration,

visit the American Library Association’s Friends of Libraries Week page.

 

 

 

 

As key supporters of literacy statewide, Oklahoma libraries and educators are invited to the 2025 Oklahoma Adult Education & Literacy Conference September 8-9 at the Metro Technology Center in OKC. Discover creative ways to support learners and impact communities at this exciting event!

 

This is a joint collaboration between the Oklahoma Literacy Coalition and CareerTech's Adult Education & Family Literacy Department, supporting advocates who work every day to build a brighter future. Made possible by a blend of state and national sponsors, the conference will equip attendees with practical strategies for literacy instruction, high school equivalency testing, English language learning, financial literacy, and workforce readiness. 

 

Gain the knowledge and connections you need to chart a course towards successful literacy services and sign up to attend today! Visit the Oklahoma Literacy Coalition website for more details.

 

 

Libraries can be found at the heart of many vital support networks, connecting their communities with life-changing help. Past bulletins shared how libraries spark STEAM exploration, organize health programs, and offer back-to-school tools. This September, let's take a look at services that boost early literacy.

 

At a library, Oklahoma families have a place to grow. So many paths to learning are available—from bigger projects like Summer Reading and My First Library to programs like Kickstart Kindergarten.

 

Libraries are teaming up with local partners to do the same! One amazing example is Pioneer Library System's relationship with Legacy Parenting Center (LPC). The two work together where their community goals overlap, creating friendly spaces that nurture life skills in caregivers and children alike!  

 

Images from Pioneer Public Library System programming

 

The partnership began in 2021 when LPC added library participation to their point system. At this nonprofit, caregivers can check out parenting classes, library programming, and even a Story Trail to earn points for essentials like diapers and clothing. Pioneer staff also held Story Time classes at the center—

an event which became so popular that sign-ups had to be capped.

 

By networking with nonprofits like LPC, Pioneer library branches are contributing to a seamless network of care for their customers. This summer, staff hosted Kickstart Kindergarten classes at various locations including the LPC, preparing young families for an introduction to the classroom.

 

Early learning doesn't have to be overwhelming! Libraries offer free resources

so you can navigate every life stage with confidence. Get plugged into a community of support today. Visit your home library!