Resources & Upcoming Deadlines for Library Staff

 

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ODL

September 15, 2025

     
     

News & Upcoming Events

     
     
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Fall 2025 Library Certification Classes

Calling all public and tribal library staff—Registration is now open for Public Library Academy certification courses! Cultivate skills that will help you serve your community with confidence and excellence.

 

 
     

How to Think Like a Librarian: Prerequisite for All Classes

Chickasha Public Library

September 30 | 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

 

Stillwater Public Library

September 30 | 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

 

     

Collection Development

Jim Lucas Checotah Library

October 9 | 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

 

Enid Public Library

October 9 | 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

 

     

Programming and Outreach

Edmond Doyle Elementary

October 15 | 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

 

Weatherford Public Library

October 16 | 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

 

     

Public Library Administration

Mustang Public Library

October 21 | 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

 

Heavener Public Library

October 22 | 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

 

 

Funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services make this program possible through the Library Services and Technology Act. Find out more about course options on our website and enroll to build expertise in the field!

 

 

 

 

 

 

September Trainings Spotlight

Find resources that fit any schedule with these helpful, convenient webinars! Email Paige Harkins at odl.education@libraries.ok.gov with questions.

 

 
 

It’s All About Culture: Building Strategic Plan Implementation

Fast Forward Libraries | Thursday, September 18 | 12 p.m.

Your strategic plan tells you what to do—but culture determines how it gets done. Learn ways to recognize cultural dynamics and connect productively.

 

 

Unraveling Legacy Toxicity: Navigating Dysfunctional Environments

Colorado State Library | Tuesday, September 23 | 2 p.m.

Legacy toxicity occurs when a new leader inherits their role within a dysfunctional environment. Discover key strategies for fostering health!

 

 

Start with Heart: The First Step to Every Successful Crucial Conversation 

Crucial Learning | Tuesday, September 30 | 12 p.m.

Find out why intent matters more than the message in this course on how to have open dialogue leading to positive outcomes for everyone involved.

 



Niche Academy Courses on Employee Development 

These courses are available on demand. Library staff members who don't have a Niche account will be prompted to create one and request access.

 

 
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Programming Grant for Rural Libraries

The Infinite Sums Rural & Small Libraries Cohort Grant Program is open for applications! Partnered with SciStarter and the Simons Foundation, The Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL) offers this fresh and exciting opportunity to boost community learning. 15 selected libraries will each receive an award of $10,000 to host math programming on Pi Day, Infinity Day, and Fibonacci Day in 2026. Recipients also get to join a remote learning cohort.

Applicants should be small or rural libraries but

don't need an ARSL membership. The window closes at 5 p.m. on September 30, so submit a proposal for a chance to receive funding today! Learn more by visiting the grant webpage.

 

 


 

 
 

 

Community of Practice Meetings

Next week, Health Literacy Community of Practice meetings kick off at

2 p.m. on September 23. All libraries are welcome! Join ODL in expanding the support network for libraries promoting health literacy with resources, skill-sharing, and experts in various health-related fields. 

 

Meetings will continue monthly on every fourth Tuesday. Let's gather around the shared goal of developing healthier and happier communities. Connect with Katherine Witzig at katherine.witzig@libraries.ok.gov to learn more.

 
 

 

 

 

Medicare Support at the Library

It isn't too late to host Medicare Prepared—a free educational session for customersat your library! This in-demand, one-hour program is made possible by a partnership with the Oklahoma Insurance Department. Connect your community with experts and vital information during the Medicare open enrollment period. Fill out the interest form to get started!

 
 


 

 

 

 

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Questions? Email info@libraries.ok.gov.