Your ODL March Newsletter

Oklahoma Department of Libraries sent this bulletin at 03/02/2026 10:00 AM CST

 

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March 2, 2026

 

Monthly Newsletter

 

I N   T H I S   B U L L E T I N

 

From the Director

America250: Sharing America's Stories

Resources

 

ODL Director's Letter header - March 26
 

 

Dear Readers,

 

March is buzzing with excitement as spring welcomes a few of our most anticipated events! On March 26, we'll celebrate reading and early literacy with Read Across Oklahoma 2026 at the OKCZoo. The theme is "America250: Telling America’s Stories," exploring our nation’s history and the stories that shaped it. The featured book by Bart Taylor, Will Rogers and His Great Presidential Pals, provides a fun introduction to American leaders through the wit and wisdom of Oklahoma’s own Will Rogers.

 

This day of learning and adventure at the Zoo isn't the only way we're celebrating America's 250th birthday. Learn more about this event, and other America250-related updates, in the special section below.

 

In other news, the 2026 Oklahoma Library Association Conference is just around the corner. Visit our table to check out resources and fun stickers. It's a highlight every year connecting with the amazing library staff serving communities across the state. Read this month's story to find out how one Oklahoma library is making a difference.

 

Happy Learning,

 

  
 

  Natalie

Natalie Currie 

Director, State Librarian and Archivist 

America250 

 

 

Read Across Oklahoma 2026

We're counting down the days to this special time for students, teachers, and volunteers to come together, enjoy live storytelling, and foster a love of books in young readers.

 

This event is open to the public. Families are invited to buy tickets, explore the Zoo, and join children's author Bart Taylor for a read-aloud. The first 1,500 kids who visit the Zoo from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 26

 

will receive a free book while supplies last, thanks to the generous support of the Krueger Charitable Foundation.

 

Read Across Oklahoma is made possible by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)—and public and private sponsors including the Oklahoma City Zoo, Tinker Federal Credit Union, and Target.  

 

 

  

 
 

 

America250 Program Planning Manual

This resource for libraries is created to provide inspiration for community-centered events celebrating America's exciting milestone. Each program concept includes a description, step-by-step instructions, and an appendix with more resources. Use this helpful tool to spark local engagement. 

 

 

  
 

 

Apply for the America250 Programs Grant

ODL invites public and tribal libraries to take advantage of this special grant offering up to $2,500. Draw inspiration from the manual and bring America250 programming to your library with grant funding.

 

Get started today! This resource is made possible by IMLS funding and will be available as long as funds last.

 

 

 

  
Agency Stories header - ODL March 26

 

Removing Barriers to Confidence and Learning

Mustang Public Library’s Teen Zone has become a trusted source of support for local 6–12 graders. In addition to offering fun programs and research tools, the library quietly meets practical needs, removing a variety of barriers that could stand in the way of learning and self-confidence. Thanks to a courtesy cart stocked with community donations, teenaged customers can access free study supplies, hygiene items, and shelf-stable food whenever they need to—no questions asked.

 

One library teen, Andrew, chose to design and build brand-new carts for his Eagle Scout service project. Supported by thoughtful community members

like Andrew and regular donations, local libraries will continue to help Oklahomans of all ages focus on building their best future.

 

Share Your Story with ODL

Sharing ODL customer stories highlights the tangible impact archives and libraries have on communities, showcasing how they foster literacy, provide access to information, and support lifelong learning. By sharing real-world examples next to data and statistics, these highlights tell the larger story of how individuals and their communities thrive when connected with library or research services. Curious about what we've featured in the past? Check out our new Agency Stories page. Click the button below to share your story!

 

  

Resources

 

Resource Sharing Header

  
Spring Certification Workshop and Updates - March 26 header
 

From April 30 to May 1, library staff can pursue their initial certification through this ODL workshop at Mabel C. Fry Public Library. Attendees may register for any or all of these four classes: "How to Think Like a Librarian," "Interpersonal Skills," "Public Library Administration," and "Reference & Readers' Advisory."
 
Sign up today! After registering, stay tuned for updates via email and join everyone for an optional networking dinner at the host library on April 30.


 

 

  
 

 

Current Trends in Public Libraries: Marketing That Matters

This 90-minute certification course explores approaches to marketing that work for libraries of all sizes. Discover low-cost tactics for raising awareness, using social media, and incorporating AI tools and automation. Guest speaker Cordelia Anderson will share ways to engage new cardholders as well as a resource list for continued learning.

 

 

Updated annually, the Current Trends in Public Libraries webinar is open to Oklahoma library staff, regardless of certification status. All registrants receive a recording of the training.

 

 

  
Health Literacy Communities of Practice header - March 26
 

Connect with other libraries and share insights by joining the Health Literacy Community of Practice. March's meeting will highlight ways to pair events like Mother's Day with programs promoting maternal health.

 

Register today to hear from Kelli Lynch, Clinical Program Director for Oklahoma Project Woman.


 

  
 

 

  

 

 

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