Libraries fight the 'summer learning slide,' through building a better future for kids across the country with Summer Reading—and Second Lady Usha Vance is on the same page. Children in grades K-8 are invited to join her Summer Reading Challenge, choosing 12 books of any genre to read by September 4.

Each finished title goes in the log, which parents or guardians then submit for prizes and a chance to visit Washington, D.C. Families already participating in a Summer Reading program will find it easy to enter. Invite customers to check out this opportunity from Second Lady Vance. Visit the website below to get involved this summer!

With funding support from IMLS, ODL will cover all printing and shipping costs. Participants may choose either an 8-panel or 21-panel exhibit of 24"x36" foam board panels. The project is adapted from the original History Colorado exhibit through a multi-state partnership.

Complete the interest form below, and ODL will reply with two agreements—one for ODL and one for History Colorado. Once we receive both signed agreements, the exhibit will be sent to your library. For timely delivery, please return them as soon as possible. Any questions? Email courtney.rutledge@libraries.ok.gov.

To better support library schedules and avoid busy summer months, several grant timelines have shifted. This year will serve as a transition year, with some applications opening slightly earlier than usual.

Beginning in 2027, the Health Literacy grant will move with Citizenship and Civic Engagement to a spring application cycle, while the Technology grant shifts to the fall. The Early Literacy and School Readiness grant Letter of Intent will open during the summer, with the rest of the process following in the fall.

A flyer outlining the 2027 grant timelines is included below. As a reminder, the Health Literacy grant is currently open through June 24. 

Oklahoma's buzzing about Summer Reading 2026! Preparations have already begun to capture the countless ways libraries help communities learn.

Once the season ends, the data gathered in the End of Summer Report will inspire stakeholders and promote these vital programs. Download the report today to use as a reference for tracking engagement, learning, and impact groups at your library. A link to submit your completed End of Summer Report will be distributed after the season concludes.