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Did you know that the Oklahoma Library Commission and the Oklahoma Library Association published Oklahoma Libraries 1900-1937: A History and Handbook?
The book is filled with information about the early days of Oklahoma’s community libraries. OLA’s new History of Oklahoma Libraries Ad-Hoc Committee aims to expand that history up to present day and shine a spotlight on the history of all types of libraries in our state.
Developing an open educational resource on the history of our libraries is planned as a multi-year project. This first year is dedicated to identifying documents to help tell our story. This is where you come in: You may have access to a book, articles, special collection or archival items, photographs, etc. that can contribute to the effort.
Use this Google form to submit your documents
You will need a Gmail account.
ODL is opening up its files and collections to this effort. We hope you join us to help tell the remarkable story of Oklahoma’s libraries and the difference they make everyday to the lives of our fellow Oklahomans.
The Oklahoma Department of Libraries (ODL) is awarding Health Literacy Grants to 36 public libraries and literacy programs to bring activities and health information to Oklahomans around the state. The grants—totaling more than $220,000—are courtesy of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), which has touted the 10-year-old project as an innovative use of federal library funds.
A Story Walk is a fun and engaging activity for children and their families. Typically, Story Walks place an oversized children’s book (taken apart) along an outdoor walking path in communities. There are 15 Story Walks that we know of in 13 Oklahoma communities–Stillwater and Lawton have two Story Walks in their cities. Most of these projects were funded with Health Literacy Grants to public libraries from the Oklahoma Department of Libraries and the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Check out the online map of Story Walks, download our Story Walks in Oklahoma Flyer (PDF).
Heads up! Based on the most recent Health Literacy Grant applications, ODL’s Literacy Resource Office reports we may see up to five new story walks in the next year!