new info
Dear Guests,
As the year winds down, I’m reflecting on the learning, curiosity and sense of wonder that make our libraries so special. Whether you're curled up with a good book, crafting a DIY gift, or enjoying one of our events, the library is the perfect place to unwind and recharge as we look forward to the new year.
Personally, I love the coziness of winter and a good mystery by the fire. If you like Hallmark Christmas movies, you should give the Christmas Tree Farm Mysteries by Jacqueline Frost a try. But there’s more to do at our libraries than just reading. Visit our Makerspaces at Bethany, Belle Isle and Almonte libraries, where you can get creative with 3D printers, Cricut machines and sewing machines. We’re also offering festive craft events like Winter Whittling and Resin Ornament Making to help you get into the holiday spirit.
This winter break, use our Experience Passes for free access to local attractions like the American Banjo Museum, Oklahoma City Museum of Art and Museum of Osteology. Just check out a pass from your library for up to seven days on a first-come, first-served basis.
We’re also excited to announce Voices and Votes: Democracy in America, an interactive exhibit at Bethany Library from Dec. 14 to Jan. 25, exploring democracy and voting rights. Join us for an opening ceremony on Dec. 14 featuring the League of Women Voters and the Armed Forces Band.
Looking ahead, our Winter Reading program starts Jan. 1! Cozy up with a book, complete a bingo card, and earn a Metro Library mug, plus chances to win AirPods, YMCA passes, or an Apple iPad.
Last month, we launched our Pages to Stages program with OKC Broadway and "Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical" followed by "Beetlejuice: The Musical." The magic continues in 2025 with "Peter Pan: The Musical," "Some Like It Hot: The Musical," and "& Juliet." Enter online or at your local branch for a chance to win tickets and join us in March for a Peter Pan celebration.
Speaking of exciting events, we’re delighted to host bestselling author Jodi Picoult for Literary Voices on April 9, with proceeds benefiting early childhood literacy programs like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Mark your calendars now.
We have more great news as an organization. In January, we’ll welcome our new CEO, Jason Kuhl, who brings over 20 years of library leadership experience. He officially starts on Jan. 6, and we look forward to the positive impact he’ll have on our community.
As your interim CEO, it’s been a true honor to serve this year. From our NASA @ My Library award to the grand opening of Almonte Library, this year has been packed with milestones. Nearly 20,000 people joined us for Summer Reading, we celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library, and we broke ground on a second library in Edmond. Our impact grew with a 127% increase in Wi-Fi sessions and a 40% rise in program attendance. Our inclusive programming expanded with Sensory Bag kits, sign language story times, and interpreted performances, while we supported health and nature literacy through Discovery Backpacks and gardening classes with Metro Grows.
These milestones and new programs wouldn’t be possible without your support — thank you for being part of this incredible year! I look forward to seeing what we’ll accomplish together in 2025 under Jason’s leadership. Here’s to another year of stories, learning, and community.
Warm regards,
Susan Smith
Susan Smith Interim CEO, Metropolitan Library System
Librarian Lindsay Jones assists a guest in the Belle Isle Makerspace.
Interim Chief Executive Officer
Susan Smith, Ph.D., M.L.I.S.
Editors
Colby Ballard
Kelly Dexter
Zoe Elrod
Designer
Marcie Jackson
On the Cover
The Grinch in the Touring Company of Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical.
Credit: Colby Ballard
Contributing Writers
Zoe Elrod
Megan Filipowski
Rachel Fite
Annika Lewis
Judie Matthews
Ann Meeks
info magazine
METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM
300 Park Ave.
Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Editorial: (405) 606-3755
Email: communications@metrolibrary.org
MLS Commission
Brian Alford, Chair
Nancy Anthony
LeAnn Childers
Ana Carmina Dange
Jennifer Edmunson
Shamia Jackson
Rachel Johnson
Elizabeth Larios
Penny McCaleb
Tracy McDaniel
Richard McQuillar
D.J. Morgan
Debbie Morris
Mukesh Patel
Kim Patterson
Chaya Pennington
Michelle Phelps
Leah Rubio
Jay Scambler
Judy Smith
Susan Tucker
Marilyn Wetmore
Tracey Zeeck
Cynthia Friedemann, Vice Chair
Craig Woodruff, Disbursing Agent
Susan Smith, Secretary (non-voting)
Ex Officio
OKC Mayor David Holt
County Commissioner Brian Maughan
The official magazine of Metropolitan Library System of Oklahoma County, Info, is published monthly by MLS Communications, 300 Park Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73102.
inside info
4 Bethany Library Hosts "Voices and Votes: Democracy in America" Exhibit
Explore American democracy's evolution through the Smithsonian’s traveling exhibition, featuring interactive displays, historical photos and community events.
6 Handmade Holidays: Crafting at the Library
Get creative this holiday season with the library’s free Makerspace reservations and festive DIY workshops for all ages.
7 Family Holiday Reads
Check out book recommendations for the whole family this holiday season.
8 In Review
Discover your next holiday read with staff picks, including a snowed-in romance, spooky Victorian tales, a heartwarming story of self-discovery, and a classic comedy about unexpected connections in post-WWII New York.
10 From the Archives: Oklahoma City's Dance Legacy from the Nutcracker and Beyond
Explore Oklahoma City's rich dance legacy, highlighting the 1963 Nutcracker production, the lasting impact of the Five Moons and the growth of dance education in the city.
12 The Worst Hard Time Revisited: Forgotten Voices of the Dust Bowl
Join the Library and OK Humanities for The Worst Hard Time Revisited, a book club series exploring untold Dust Bowl stories through five discussions led by female scholars.
13 Winter Reading is Almost Here
Cozy up in January and February with Book Bingo—read five books for prizes, or complete 25 for a chance at the grand prize.
15 December Events
There’s plenty to do at the library this month, including book clubs, holiday-themed take-home kits, movie nights, scavenger hunts, swing band performances, and more!
Bethany Library Hosts Smithsonian Exhibit Voices and Votes: Democracy in America
By Zoe Elrod, Internal Communications Coordinator
The Bethany Library will proudly host the Smithsonian’s Voices and Votes: Democracy in America exhibit from Dec. 14, 2024, to Jan. 25, 2025. This immersive display traces the journey of American democracy, highlighting key milestones from the Revolutionary War to modern-day civic engagement and voting rights. The exhibit invites visitors to reflect on fundamental questions of citizenship, voting and representation, encouraging a deeper understanding of the complexities and evolution of American democracy.
Adapted from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, Voices and Votes combines historical and contemporary photos, multimedia interactives and unique artifacts. The exhibit examines themes of suffrage, civil rights and citizens' roles in shaping democracy, presenting a timeline that spans nearly 250 years of the “government of, by, and for the people.” From revolutionary ideals and voting machines to the suffrage movement and civil rights protests, Voices and Votes provides a rich, multi-sensory experience for visitors of all ages.
Bethany Library was selected by the Oklahoma Humanities Council to host Voices and Votes as part of the Museum on Main Street (MoMS) program, which brings Smithsonian exhibits to rural communities. Bethany marks the final Oklahoma stop on this six-city tour.
“Hosting Voices and Votes allows us to reflect on Bethany’s history and engage our community in the broader story of American democracy,” said Librarian Anna Todd, who led efforts to bring the exhibit to Bethany. “We hope this exhibit will inspire conversations about the meaning of civic responsibility and participation in both local and national contexts.”
The exhibit is open all hours the Library is open – Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m, to 5 p.m., and Sunday 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Opening Ceremony - Dec. 14
To celebrate the opening, a family-friendly ceremony on Dec. 14 will feature various events and activities:
• 10 a.m. – Introduction
• 10:30 a.m. – Ribbon Cutting
• 10:50 a.m. – Student Contest Winners presentation
• 11 a.m. – The Mattie Mallory Story with the Bethany Children’s Health Center, celebrating the local health center’s history and founder’s legacy
National Woman’s Party march for woman’s suffrage, Washington, D.C., February 14, 1917. Photograph, gift of Alice Paul Centennial Foundation, National Museum of American History
“Bloody Massacre in King Street,” engraving by Paul Revere, 1770, Courtesy of National Museum of American History
• 11:30 a.m. – Suffragette Storytime hosted by the League of Women Voters, bringing to life the women’s suffrage movement for all ages
• Noon – Flag Ceremony
• 1 p.m. – Armed Forces Band Performance, honoring the longstanding relationship between American democracy and the military
Additional Events and Programs
To complement the exhibit, the Bethany Library will also host the "Lost History: Rediscovering Tales of Oklahoma’s Past" discussion series. Held weekly at 2 p.m., this series explores lesser-known chapters of Oklahoma’s history, guided by renowned local historians:
• Dec. 15: Indian Territories’ Influence on the State of Oklahoma by Michael Williams, Director of the Oklahoma Territorial Museum, who has contributed to several Oklahoma history documentaries
• Dec. 22: Oklahomans in Sports by Carrie Fox, founder of the Bottom Rail History Institute and specialist in African American and Latino narratives
• Dec. 29: Oklahomans in Space by Bill Moore, coauthor of Never Panic Early with astronaut Fred Haise
• Jan. 5: Latino History in Oklahoma by Carrie Fox, with a focus on community engagement and social justice in education, also with a presentation offered in Spanish at 3 p.m.
• Jan. 12: This Land is Herland: Gendered Activism in Oklahoma – Featuring Chelsea Ball, Heather Clemmer, Sarah Eppler Janda and Patti Loughlin, who will examine women’s impact on Oklahoma’s history and social movements
• Jan. 19: African American History in Oklahoma by Carrie Fox, dedicated to highlighting underrepresented stories within Oklahoma’s past
• Jan. 26: Oklahoma’s Proud Military Tradition by Dr. Denise R. Neil, the Executive Director of the 45th Infantry Division Museum, honoring the state’s unique role in national defense
Rediscover Oklahoma’s diverse heritage and explore the ongoing story of democracy with the Bethany Library’s Voices and Votes exhibit and events.
For more details and additional events or to schedule a school visit, please visit metrolibrary.org/voicesandvotes.
Above, left: “A Woman Living Here Has Registered to Vote,” window sign for a home, 1919, Courtesy of National Museum of American History Above right: Statue of Liberty, sketch, June 30, 1884. Courtesy of Library of Congress
March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, August 28, 1963 by Rowland Scherman, Courtesy of National Archives and Records Administration
“Naturalization Ceremony at Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello,” July 4, 2013, ©Thomas Jefferson Foundation at Monticello
Handmade Holidays Crafting at the Library
By Zoe Elrod, Internal Communications Coordinator
The holiday season can be stressful and costly, but the Library offers free Makerspace reservations at Bethany, Belle Isle and Almonte Libraries. You can create personalized gifts using tools like 3D printers, Cricut machines, and sewing machines. Connect with fellow crafters, with reservations available for those holding a valid library card. Each person is limited to one active session at a time, and a signed user agreement is required.
Join us for a variety of crafting events tailored for all ages this holiday season! Start by joining the Downtown Crochet and Knit Club on Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. at Downtown OKC Library. Maker Tuesday for all ages takes place on Dec. 3 and 10 at 4:30 p.m. at Southern Oaks Library, followed by an Adventures in Embroidery class at Edmond Library Dec. 10 at 6:30 p.m. Other highlights include the Maker Meetup at Bethany Library on Dec. 11 at 6 p.m. and a Crochet Night for teens and adults at Capitol Hill Library on Dec. 12 at 6:30 p.m. Don’t miss the Beginner-Friendly Crochet Night at Belle Isle Library on Dec. 16 at 6 p.m., the Fiber Arts Group
and Craft Along at Bethany Library Dec. 4 and Dec. 18 at 1:30 p.m., and the Needle Felt Architecture Painting class at Almonte Library on Dec. 14 at 2 p.m.
Holiday Crafting Events:
For Kids:
• Dec. 11: Makerspace: Winter Whittle at Choctaw Library at 4 p.m., where participants will create winterthemed designs using soap carving.
For Teens and Tweens:
• Dec. 9 - 15: Take-and-Make Felt Animal Ornament Kit at Edmond Library, providing a fun way to sew cute winter woodland decorations.
• Dec. 12: Paper Mosaic Holiday Cards at Choctaw Library at 3:15 p.m., a chance to craft unique holiday cards.
• Dec. 12: Resin Ornaments at Midwest City Library at 5 p.m., where you can make dazzling resin holiday ornaments.
For Adults:
• Dec. 4: Deck the Bottles: Christmas Wine Bottle Upcycling at Edmond Library at 6:30 p.m., transforming wine bottles into beautiful decorations.
• Dec. 8: Cross-Stitch Ornaments at Southern Oaks Library at 3 p.m., where participants can start a crossstitch design on a mini stocking kit.
• Dec. 9: DIY Christmas Tree Ornament at Northwest Library at 6 p.m., a workshop for creating vintage-style ornaments, with materials provided.
• Dec. 10: Candle Making at Warr Acres Library at 6:30 p.m., focusing on making candles from upcycled glass.
• Dec. 13: DIY Ornament Hour at Southern Oaks Library at 4:30 p.m., where you can enjoy making your own ornaments.
• Dec. 14: Santa’s Workshop at Del City Library at 2 p.m., a chance to create a custom handmade gift.
For All Ages:
• Dec. 5: Holiday Cocoa Jar Night at Bethany Library at 6 p.m., making a jar of hot cocoa mix to take home— one jar per family.
• Dec. 14: Winter Ornament Making with Paper Clay at Warr Acres Library at 10 a.m., where you can create winter ornaments.
Join us for wrapping parties at several locations:
• Northwest Library on Dec. 5 at 5 p.m.
• Southern Oaks Library on Dec. 7 at 2:30 p.m.
• Capitol Hill Library on Dec. 17 at 3 p.m.
• Midwest City Library on Dec. 20 at 1 p.m.
Bring your gifts for beautiful wrapping, with paper and bows provided at each event.
Family Holiday Reads
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and we have many book recs to accompany your cozy reading! Now is the time to warm up by the fire, find a new holiday read and let the magic of your local library help make your season bright.
Scan the QR code for even more children's book recommendations!
THE GRINCH in the Touring Company of Dr. Seuss’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! The Musical. Credit: Colby Ballard
in review
Eight Nights of Flirting
Hannah Reynolds
Available formats: Book, eAudiobook
As Hanukkah nears, Shira Barbanel has a plan – to get Isaac, her great-uncle’s assistant, as her boyfriend. When she ends up snowed in at her family’s home on Nantucket with her first crush/current enemy Tyler Nelson, she realizes that he just might be the person to help her get Isaac’s attention. So, the two strike up a deal to help each other: Shira’s connections to advance Tyler’s career and Tyler’s charming personality to help Shira learn how to flirt.
But when the holiday celebrations begin, she finds that maybe hanging out with Tyler isn’t so bad after all and that he’s actually who she wants to be her boyfriend by the time Hanukkah ends. And Tyler has a revelation of his own; that the pre-teen girl he once knew just might be the person who knows him the best.
Growing up in a Northern state where winters are as snowy as the one Shira experiences on Nantucket, I’ve always been enchanted by the blend of snow and the holidays. There’s just something about this time of year that feels particularly magical. Eight Nights of Flirting captures the romantic qualities of the season and would be a welcome addition to any holiday reading list!
reviewed by: Megan Filipowski
Megan is the Digital Services and Social Media Manager for Metro Library. When she’s not watching baseball or hockey, you’ll find her baking, discovering a new true crime show to binge-watch or trying to read as many books on her TBR as possible.
Available formats: eComic, Graphic Novel
In the grand tradition of telling ghost stories on Christmas Eve, “Four Gathered on Christmas Eve” by Eric Powell is a graphic novel composed of four stories told by outcasts of Victorian English society. As they spin their tales to one another, different fears of the era are brought out; the fears of one's servants overpowering you, of colonized people fighting back through supernatural means, and the ultimate fear of man's hubris coming back to kill. The stories are interspersed by their tellers having arguments in the intermissions, displaying that they have more than a few stories of their own to hide — many less fictional than they would have you believe. “Four Gathered on Christmas Eve” is a beautifully illustrated, fun jaunt for those who prefer their Yuletide on the spooky side.
reviewed by: Annika Lewis
Annika Lewis is a librarian at the Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library. Her favorite genres are urban fantasy and science fiction. In her spare time, she runs tabletop RPGs for her friends, takes her cats for walks and paints historical & fantasy portraits.
YFICTION REY
Four Gathered on Christmas Eve
Eric Powell
FICTION FOU
Sonya Lalli
Available formats: Book, eAudiobook, eBook, Kindle
Niki's parents are worried that she doesn't go out to meet people. She hasn't made a new friend or had a boyfriend in quite some time. She is a perfectionist who has just been laid off after years of always doing what was "right." If this way of living hasn't paid off, maybe she should be more spontaneous. She does just that by calling her friend Diya to see if she can still make it to her wedding in India, only a week away. Niki arrives in time to celebrate Diwali and all the wedding events. There she meets "Sam from the Band," and they are immediately drawn together. Between celebrations with Sam, she starts her job search. When a promising offer finally comes through, Niki must decide whether to return to the stable life she's always known or embrace a new, more unpredictable path, one she would have never even considered before.
This is an adorable holiday book that is lighthearted and thought-provoking. Niki’s character development shines like Diwali, making her a lovable and relatable lead. The cultural details woven into the story create a vibrant and immersive backdrop for the romance, making it an ideal addition to any holiday reading list.
reviewed by: Rachel Fite
Rachel is an Engagement Specialist at Midwest City Library. Rachel's favorite genre is fantasy, and she enjoys adventurous and emotional books. Rachel enjoys painting, reading, baking, and playing Dungeons and Dragons and Pikmin.
5th
Available formats: DVD
I came across this at the Library! I’ve seen many of the famous holiday classics but missed this one. I’m glad I discovered this 1947 comedy with some drama and a good message too. The screenplay was nominated for the Academy Award for best story, losing to another Christmas-themed movie, “Miracle on 34th Street.”
Every winter Aloysius T. McKeever, who is what used to be called a “hobo,” goes to stay in the “second richest man in the world’s” New York mansion when the owner and the servants leave to spend the winter in Virginia. McKeever is played by Broadway actor Victor Moore and has lots of sage life advice. He and his dog enjoy a quiet life in the lavish mansion. However, this year he’s joined by Jim, a returning GI and his friends who can’t find housing as it’s after WWII and there’s a housing shortage for returning soldiers. Also joining the crowded brownstone is the homeowner and rich man played by noted character actor, Charles Ruggles, although no one recognizes him because he’s in disguise as another hobo. His daughter, who also is in the house, asks him to keep the secret because she is in love with Jim. (It’s complicated). While the events happen over Christmas, and there’s a Christmas song, this is a fun movie to watch any time.
reviewed by: Ann Meeks
Ann Meeks is a librarian at Ralph Ellison Library and has worked as a librarian for Metro Library for over 25 years. She's a third-generation librarian, as her grandmother and father were librarians. Her other grandmother and mother were both English teachers.
A Holly Jolly Diwali
FICTION LAL It Happened on
Avenue Warner Home Video
MOVIE IT BLU-RAY DISC
From the Archives: Oklahoma City's Dance Legacy from the Nutcracker and Beyond
By Judie Matthews, Special Collections Librarian
It is all too easy when exploring history to take for granted our civic culture and assume things have always been just as they are now. A December production of "The Nutcracker" is common throughout the entire world, almost so customary you could find it mundane. When I stumbled across this midcentury poster advertising a 1963 production of "The Nutcracker" at today's Civic Center, I found it stunning and knew it featured some of the biggest names in American ballet, but I did not understand its importance in OKC's artistic history until I dug deeper.
"While somewhat unexplainable, it is nevertheless fact that five of the major names in ballet come from Oklahoma and are of American Indian descent" wrote Joe Broady, Oklahoman and Times culture writer in October 1963.
The legacy of the Five Moons, which is a name for five prominent indigenous ballet dancers – Yvonne Chouteau, Rosella Hightower, Moscelyne Larkin, Maria Tallchief, and Marjorie Tallchief - has become an important part of Oklahoma history, firmly planting American ballet at the forefront of dance worldwide. Equally important to these dancers as making an international name for themselves, was the desire to ensure fine arts education and performance in Oklahoma. Yvonne Chouteau, who spent part of her youth in Oklahoma City, traveled back to Oklahoma with her husband Miguel Terekhov, to begin ballet instruction at OU in the early 1960s at the request of University President George Lynn Cross.
As those classes grew, Chouteau and Terekhov opened a private dance academy and quickly moved it to the state fairgrounds, where John Kirkpatrick provided funding and space for dance education to take off in Oklahoma City. Chouteau reminisced, “I have no idea where dance in Oklahoma City would be without John."
How do we measure the impact of arts investment? Asking about quality of life or artistic appreciation is subjective and hard to pin down but tracking the number of businesses and the reinvestment of art might produce meaningful figures. In 1961, Oklahoma City was home to eleven dance schools but by 1980 the number had bloomed to 29, an increase of 163%. During this time OKC's population increased only 24%. Compared with regional peers, Dallas had a 75%
with its overall population boom, around 88%. The growth in OKC dance schools is simply astonishing.
Chouteau's twin visions, for an accomplished and popular dance company in Oklahoma City and school for ballet at the state's premier institution, seem to have made a lasting culture impact on our city, but their success was evident from the start. The 1963 Nutcracker production sold over 6000 tickets. The Oklahoma City Advertiser summed it up nicely, “a precedent of…performance was set that should put the company…on their toes for a long time to come.”
1963 Nutcracker poster from the Special Collections Archives, featuring a midcentury production at today’s Civic Center.
Noon
Year ’ s Eve
Kick off the New Year early with familyfriendly Noon Year’s Eve parties on Dec. 31 at select library locations! Enjoy crafts, games, music and countdowns. Reminder: All locations close at 6 p.m. Dec. 31.
Choctaw Library:
11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. (birth-pre-K) Crafts and a colorful balloon drop for little ones!
Almonte Library*: 11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. (birth-pre-K & kids) Games, crafts and a countdown
Southern Oaks Library*: 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. (all ages) Music, dancing and a balloon drop at noon! Register in advance.
Downtown OKC Library*: 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. (kids) New Year’s crafts, games and a special “noon” ball drop.
Northwest Library: 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. (birth-pre-K & kids) Fun activities, games and a new year countdown.
Midwest City Library: 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. Crafts, a countdown and balloons at noon!
* Registration required. Register online at bit.
ly/4e7BZQu
Across
3. A jolly man in a red suit who delivers presents on Christmas Eve.
5. An eight-day Jewish festival celebrating the rededication of the Second Temple, marked by lighting the menorah.
6. A 1963 production at Oklahoma City's Civic Center, featuring major ballet stars, marked a pivotal moment in the city's dance history and helped establish Oklahoma as a ballet hub, featured in the article on page 10.
9. A cozy winter challenge in January and February where reading five books earns you prizes, and completing all 25 spots enters you for a chance to win grand prizes.
10. A festive plant that shows up in decorations and something that may make an appearance in a cozy holiday romances you’ll find the library.
11. A thoughtful gift for a bibliophile that helps them keep their place in a book.
Down
1. A week-long celebration honoring African heritage, observed from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1.
2. Something you can pick up at the library, available in different versions for all ages, first come, first served and perfect for a fun snow day activity.
4. A creative, hands-on space at the library where you can access tools like 3D printers, Cricut machines and sewing machines to make personalized crafts and gifts.
7. A grumpy character who tries to ruin Christmas, stars in a recent musical and visited our Downtown OKC Library (also on the cover of this issue).
8. A popular app for borrowing eBooks, audiobooks and magazines from your library, where you can enjoy reading holiday recipes or listening to festive audiobooks—free with a library card.
Answers - Across: 3. Santa, 5. Hannukah, 6. The Nutcracker, 9. Winter Reading, 10. Mistletoe, 11. Bookmark. Down: 1. Kwanzaa, 2. Take-Home Kit, 4. Makerspace, 7. The Grinch, 8. Libby
The Worst Hard Time Revisited: Forgotten Voices of the Dust Bowl
By Zoe Elrod, Internal Communications Coordinator
The Metropolitan Library System is partnering with OK Humanities for an edition of the Let’s Talk About It program, presenting a book club series titled The Worst Hard Time Revisited. This series includes five discussions focused on the Oklahoma Dust Bowl—a devastating period in the 1930s when severe drought and poor agricultural practices led to massive dust storms, which displaced thousands and reshaped the landscape.
Participants will engage with five pre-selected books, each session led by a different female scholar. The discussions will highlight how ordinary people coped with extraordinary circumstances, and draws from letters and various archives to bring their experiences to light. Special emphasis will be placed on Oklahomans of color and those living in Oklahoma City at the time. The program is free and open to all, and offers new perspectives on history and fostering connections among literature enthusiasts.
“We wanted to reexamine the story of the Dust Bowl,” said Judie Matthews, an organizer of the event. “How did it affect people and communities that haven’t been part of the main story?”
Matthews noted that, with a focus on female scholars, they aim to challenge common narratives about who was affected by the Great Depression and Dust Bowl in Oklahoma City. “What stories have we yet to hear, and how might that change our thinking about not only these historic events but future climate crises?” Matthews reflects.
She expressed excitement about partnering with Let’s Talk About It, which provides access to Oklahoma-based scholars and thinkers, and aligns with the library’s mission of fostering new perspectives and lifelong learning. The event promises to be an exclusive, in-depth, and transformational experience.
Above: Heavy black clouds of dust rising over the Texas Panhandle. March 1936 photo by Arthur Rothstein.
Above inset: Lake Overholser during the Dust Bowl era from the Oklahoma Images Collection, Metropolitan Library System’s Special Collections and Research Department, circa 1935
The Worst Hard Time Revisited Book Club Event Dates (Tuesdays at 6 p.m.)
Jan. 7 - Dr. Patricia Loughlin discusses "The Worst Hard Time" by Timothy Egan
March 11
Dr. Karen Youmans discusses "Now In November" by Josephine W. Johnson
Feb. 11
Dr. Sara Richter discusses "Letters from the Dust Bowl" by Caroline Henderson
April 8
Dr. Kalenda Eaton discusses "Whose Names Are Unknown" by Sanora Babb
May 13
Dr. Sunu Kodumthara discusses "Out of the Dust" by Karen Hesse
Book Bingo Winter Reading
Book club spots are limited. Like all library events, this is free and open to the public.
Winter reading is almost here! Cozy up by the fire with a book and hot cocoa as the Metropolitan Library System’s Winter Reading program for adults kicks off in January. Join the Book Bingo challenge from Jan. 1 to Feb. 28. You can use a bingo card or log your progress online through Beanstack. Complete a row of five books for bingo, and finishing all 25 books enters you in the grand prize drawing! For more details, visit metrolibrary.org/bookbingo.
Read Five Books: Earn a 15 oz. Metro Library mug and enter a drawing for prizes. A Metro Library card is required for drawing prize eligibility, including AirPods, library-branded items, YMCA passes and more.
Complete All 25 Spots: Enter the grand prize drawing for a YMCA membership, an Apple iPad, and two VIP tickets to Literary Voices featuring author Jodi Picoult.
metrolibrary.org/bookbingo
New Experience Passes Available
How do they work?
Make this winter break memorable with Metro Library's Experience Passes, offering free entry to some of Oklahoma City's best museums. Whether you're looking for a family outing, a date day or a fun solo adventure, these passes make exploring easy and affordable. Simply visit your local library to check out a pass, which can be borrowed for up to seven days on a first-come, first-served basis. You can check availability online, and if you're on your way, call 405-231-8650 to reserve one. Each pass provides entry for multiple people, making it easy to bring family or friends along.
Here’s what each pass includes:
• American Banjo Museum: Admission for up to five people
• First Americans Museum: Admission for up to two adults and four children
• Oklahoma City Museum of Art: Admission for up to five people
• Oklahoma Firefighters Museum: Admission for up to five people
• Oklahoma Hall of Fame Gaylord-Pickens Museum: Admission for up to five people
• Oklahoma History Center: Admission for up to five people
• Skeletons: Museum of Osteology: Admission for up to two adults and two children
Borrowing guidelines:
• Only one pass may be checked out at a time per household
• Passes cannot be renewed, and overdue fines are $1 per day (up to $30)
• Replacement cost for lost passes is $60
This winter break, use an Experience Pass to explore Oklahoma City's rich history, art and culture — courtesy of the Metro Library!
Each of our 19 Metro libraries has one Experience Pass per venue, which can be used for free admission to the venue. Each pass has its own set of guidelines for the number of visitors admitted and whether special exhibits are included. Experience Passes check out for seven days and are offered first-come, first-served. Ask any library staff member for more information!
december featured events
To see the latest information about library programs and events, click on the Attend menu on the MLS website: metrolibrary.org. All Metro Library locations will be closed Dec. 24 - 25 for the Christmas holiday, and will close at 6 p.m. Dec. 31 for New Year's Eve and be closed Jan. 1.
Library
Library
Voices and Votes: Democracy in America Smithsonian Exhibit
All Ages
14 - Jan. 25, All Day Bethany Library
Voices and Votes: Opening Ceremony
All Ages
14 at 10 a.m. Bethany Library
Voices and Votes: Lost History: Rediscovering Tales of Oklahoma's Past Discussion Series
Teens, Adults
15, 22, 29 at 2 p.m. Bethany Library
at 2 p.m. Del City Library Around the World: Holidays
Guided Acrylic Painting: Gingerbread Man*
Classic Swing Big Band - Holiday Edition!
Ages
Northwest Library Holiday Zines for Teens & Tweens* Kids, Teens
Kids' Holiday Shoppe* Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 17 at 1:30
Oaks Library
on The Green
28 at 11
Wiggly Wednesdays
Hot Chocolate and Coffee for Cowboy Christmas
All Ages Dec. 7, from 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Wright Library
december events Wright Library
Almonte Library
Staying Active & Independent for Life (SAIL)
Adults Dec. 3, 5, 10, 12 at 10 a.m.
Wiggly Wednesdays
Birth-PreK Dec. 4, 11, 18 at 10 a.m.
Wiggly Wednesdays*
Birth-PreK Dec. 4, 11, 18 at 11 a.m.
Reading to Dogs
All Ages Dec. 9 at 6 p.m.
Yarn Club! / ¡Club de Hilo!*
Teens, Adults Dec. 10 at 6 p.m.
Joyfest
All Ages Dec. 12 at 6 p.m.
Needle Felt Architecture Painting with Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center Studio School*
Adults Dec. 14 at 2 p.m.
Make Your Own Snowflake! (Take Home Kit)
Kids Dec. 16 - 20, All Day
Little Stitches: Embroidery Basics for Kids*
Kids Dec. 16 at 6 p.m.
123! Play with Me!
Birth-PreK Dec. 21 at 10:30 a.m.
Noon Year's Eve Party*
Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 31 at 11 a.m.
Belle Isle Library
123! Play with Me!
Birth-PreK Dec. 2 at 10 a.m.
Kid Questions, Doc Answers: Meet Future Pediatricians
Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 3 at 2 p.m.
Lo-Fi Study Hall
Teens, Adults Dec. 3 and 17 at 5 p.m.
Birth-PreK Dec. 4, 11, 18 at 9 a.m. and 10 a.m.
Wiggly Wednesdays* (Signup Required)
Birth-PreK Dec. 4, 11, 18 at 11 a.m.
Children Reading to Dogs
Kids Dec. 4 and 18 at 6:15 p.m.
Video Games
Teens Dec. 5 at 4 p.m.
Ugly Sweater Party
Adults Dec. 8 at 2:30 p.m.
Pretend Playtime
Birth-PreK Dec. 9 at 10 a.m.
Linocut Printmaking*
Adults Dec. 10 at 6 p.m.
Belle Isle Book Club
Adults Dec. 11 at 11 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Zine Canteen Teens, Adults Dec. 12 at 6:30 p.m.
Beginner Friendly Crochet - Beanie or Scarf*
Adults Dec. 16 at 6 p.m.
Twenty-Somethings
Adults Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m.
Vinyl Record & Art Night Teens, Adults Dec. 19 at 6:30 p.m.
Bethany Library
Rocket Readers Kids Dec. 2 at 4:30 p.m.
Virtual Rocket Readers*
Kids Dec. 2 at 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 8 p.m.
Tuesdays Together
Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 3 at 10 a.m.
November Novelist Month Celebration
Adults Dec. 3 at 6 p.m.
Coffee and Crafts
Adults Dec. 4 at 10:30 a.m.
Fiber Arts Group/Craft Along! Kids, Teens, Adults Dec. 4 and 18 at 1:30 p.m.
Oklahoma Human Services Mobile Bus
Adults Dec. 5, from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Holiday Cocoa Jars* Kids, Teens, Adults Dec. 5 at 6 p.m.
American Girl Book Club
Kids, Teens Dec. 6 at 4:30 p.m.
Stories & Fun
Birth-PreK, Kids
Free Family Portraits (Session 1)*
Dec. 7 at 11 a.m.
All Ages Dec. 7 at Noon
Free Family Portraits (Session 2)*
All Ages Dec. 7 at 12:30 p.m.
Free Family Portraits (Session 3)*
All Ages Dec. 7 at 1 p.m.
Free Family Portraits (Session 4)*
All Ages Dec. 7 at 1:30 p.m.
Personal Finance Coach
Teens, Adults
Women's Coffee
Adults
Winter Crafts
Dec. 9 at 5 p.m.
Dec. 10 at 10 a.m.
Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 10 and 17 at 10 a.m.
Voices and Votes: Democracy in America
Smithsonian Exhibit
All Ages
Maker Meetup
Teens, Adults
123! Play with Me!
Birth-PreK
Children Reading to Dogs Kids
Dec. 14 - Jan. 25, All Day
Dec. 11 at 6 p.m.
Dec. 12 at 10 a.m.
Dec. 12 at 4 p.m.
Voices and Votes: Opening Ceremony
All Ages Dec. 14 at 10 a.m.
Voices and Votes: Lost History: Rediscovering Tales of Oklahoma's Past Discussion Series
Teens, Adults Dec. 15, 22, 29 at 2 p.m.
Bethany Book Club
Adults
Capitol Hill Library
Dec. 31 at 11 a.m.
Jigsaw Puzzle Contest!
Teens, Adults Dec. 7 at 1 p.m.
How Capitol Hill Library Stole Christmas! Kids, Teens Dec. 9 at 4 p.m.
Kwanzaa Holiday Craft Kit All Ages Dec. 11 - 23, All Day
After School Snack Series Kids, Teens Dec. 11 at 4 p.m.
Metropolitan Library Commission Meeting
Adults Dec. 12 at 3:30 p.m.
Crochet Night Meet Up Teens, Adults Dec. 12 at 6:30 p.m.
Winter Wonderland House Craft- Kit All Ages Dec. 17 - 23, All Day
Choctaw Library
December Mindfulness Journal Teens, Adults Dec. 1, All Day
Full Steam Ahead: Kitchen Table Science Kids Dec. 2, All Day
Web Developer Bootcamp with Fiero Learning* Teens, Adults Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 at 7 p.m.
123! Play with Me! Birth-PreK Dec. 3 at 10 a.m.
Teen Dungeons and Dragons Teens Dec. 3 and 17 at 2:30 p.m.
Stay Active & Independent for Life (SAIL)* Adults Dec. 4, 11, 18 at 10 a.m.
Tai Chi* Adults Dec. 4, 11, 18 at 1 p.m.
Gamefest Kids Dec. 4 at 4 p.m.
Homeschool Hangout Kids Dec. 5 at 10 a.m.
Artsy Fartsy Club: Frida Kahlo Teens Dec. 5 at 3:15 p.m.
Letters To Santa Kids
The Caring Van Visit
All Ages
Dec. 1 - 21, All Day
Dec. 3 at 1 p.m.
Introductory English as a Second Language Classes (ESL)
Adults
After School Games
Kids, Teens
Dec. 3, 5, 10, 12 at 6 p.m.
Dec. 5 and 19 at 4 p.m.
Adult Dungeons and Dragons Teens, Adults Dec. 5 and 19 at 6 p.m.
Teen Advisory Board Teens Dec. 6 at 3 p.m.
Paper Snowflake Ornaments* Adults Dec. 7 at 2 p.m.
Choctaw Library, cont'd
Page Turners*
Adults Dec. 8 at 2 p.m.
Toddler Storytime
Birth-PreK Dec. 10 and 17 at 9:30 a.m.
Preschool Storytime
Birth-PreK Dec. 10 and 17 at 10:30 a.m.
Makerspace: Winter Whittle
Kids Dec. 11 at 4 p.m.
Paper Mosaic Holiday Cards
Teens Dec. 12 at 3:15 p.m.
Let's Get Crafty Teens, Adults Dec. 14 at 2 p.m.
Catch 'Em All @ The Choctaw Pokémon Club
Kids, Teens Dec. 18 at 4 p.m.
Lemonade Lounge
Teens Dec. 19 at 3:15 p.m.
Calm Before Christmas
All Ages Dec. 23 at 10 a.m.
Noon Year's Eve
Birth-PreK Dec. 31 at 11 a.m.
Del City Library
DHS Resource Help
Adults Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
High School Equivalency Classes (HSE)
Adults Dec. 2, 4, 9, 11 at Noon
Teen Dungeons and Dragons
Teens Dec. 2, 9, 16 at 5:30 p.m.
Storytime*
Birth-PreK Dec. 3 and 17 at 10 a.m.
Sunset Yoga*
Adults Dec. 3 and 17 at 6:30 p.m.
Child Development and Autism Screening*
Birth-PreK Dec. 4 at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m.
Lo-fi Study Hall
Kids, Teens, Adults Dec. 4, 11, 18 at 5 p.m.
LEGO Club
Kids Dec. 5 and 19 at 4 p.m.
Teen Game Night Teens Dec. 5 and 19 at 6:30 p.m.
The Book Drop - Teen Book Box* Teens Dec. 6, All Day
OKC Mobile Market
All Ages Dec. 6 and 20 at 1 p.m.
The Shelf Watch Book Club*
Adults Dec. 7 at 10 a.m.
The Writers Room*
Adults Dec. 7 at 2 p.m.
Pokemon TCG League* Kids, Teens Dec. 8 and 22 at 3 p.m.
Art Time* Birth-PreK Dec. 10 at 10 a.m.
Reindeer Games!* All Ages Dec. 11 at 6:30 p.m.
Family Art Night* All Ages Dec. 12 and 26 at 6:30 p.m.
Magic the Gathering for Beginners* Kids, Teens Dec. 13 at 4 p.m.
Santa's Workshop* Adults Dec. 14 at 2 p.m.
Culture Crew - Scandinavian Traditions!* All Ages Dec. 18 at 6:30 p.m.
Teen Game Night Teens Dec. 19 at 6:30 p.m.
Happy Noon Year!* Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 31 at 11 a.m.
Downtown Library
Teen Book Bag* Teens Dec. 1 - 7, All Day
Canta Conmigo! Bilingual Storytime All Ages, Birth-PreK Dec. 2, 9, 16 at 10:30 a.m.
Live Piano Music
All Ages Dec. 2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30 at Noon
Baby Storytime! Birth-PreK Dec. 4 and 18 at 11 a.m.
Creativity Lab: Minecraft!* Kids Dec. 4 at 3:30 p.m.
Metro Writes with Romance Author Collette Carmon* Adults Dec. 5 at 7 p.m.
Preschool Paint & Play Birth-PreK Dec. 7 and 21 at 11 a.m.
Downtown Crochet & Knit Club*
Teens, Adults Dec. 7 at 2 p.m.
Kids Build: LEGO and Beyond*
Kids Dec. 8 at 2 p.m.
123! Play with Me!
Birth-PreK Dec. 11 at 11 a.m.
Around the World: Holidays
Kids Dec. 11 at 3:30 p.m.
Children Reading to Dogs*
Kids Dec. 12 at 3:30 p.m.
Computer Keys: PowerPoint Essentials*
Teens, Adults Dec. 14 at 10 a.m.
Winter Crafternoon*
Kids, Teens, Adults Dec. 14 at 2 p.m.
Lunch Bunch Book Club*
Adults Dec. 17 at Noon
Still Growing: Gardening Class for Adults*
Adults Dec. 19 at 6:30 p.m.
Community and Coffee
Adults Dec. 20 at 9 a.m.
Noon Year's Eve Celebration*
Kids Dec. 31 at 11:30 a.m.
Tales from the Silver Screen - The Muppet Christmas
Carol (1992)
Adults Dec. 4 at 7 p.m.
Baby Storytime*
Birth-PreK Dec. 5 at 9:30 a.m.
Anime Club* Teens Dec. 5 at 6:30 p.m.
Family Storytime*
Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 7 and 14 at 10 a.m.
LEGO Block Party*
Kids Dec. 7 at 3 p.m.
Take & Make: Felt Animal Ornaments -- Ages 10-18* Kids, Teens Dec. 9-15, All Day
Pinecone Christmas Tree Take and Make for Ages 2-5*
Birth-PreK Dec. 9-15, All Day
Adventures in Embroidery for Adults with the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center*
Adults Dec. 10 at 6:30 p.m.
Chess Club* Kids, Teens Dec. 11 at 4:30 p.m.
Foodie Fun*
Adults Dec. 11 at 7 p.m.
Musictime for Babies* Birth-PreK Dec. 13 at 9:30 a.m.
Musictime for Children (ages 2-5)* Birth-PreK Dec. 13 at 10:30 a.m.
Preschool Storytime (Ages 3-5)*
Birth-PreK Dec. 2 and 9 at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Hues on First Art Club*
Teens, Adults Dec. 2 at 6:30 p.m.
Toddler Storytime (Ages 1-3)*
Birth-PreK Dec. 3, 4, 10, 11 at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
Cozy Mystery Book Club
Adults Dec. 3 at 3 p.m.
Intermediate English as a Second Language Classes (ESL)
Adults Dec. 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19 at 5 p.m.
Children Reading to Dogs - 1st Session*
Kids Dec. 3 and 17 at 6:30 p.m.
Children Reading to Dogs - 2nd Session*
Kids Dec. 3 and 17 at 7 p.m.
U.S. Citizenship Classes
Adults Dec. 4 and 11 at 4:30 p.m.
Deck the Bottles: Christmas Wine Bottle Upcycling*
Adults Dec. 4 at 6:30 p.m.
Book Bunch Book Club*
Adults Dec. 14 at 1:30 p.m.
Quilling Club* Teens, Adults Dec. 16 at 6 p.m.
Playtime* Birth-PreK Dec. 18 at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
A Holly Jolly Storytime!* Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 21 at 10 a.m.
Teens & Tweens: Sewing Camp - Clothing Construction 1* Kids, Teens Dec. 30 and 31 at 2 p.m.
December Mindfulness Journal Teens, Adults Dec. 2, All Day
Marbled Paper Creations Kids, Teens Dec. 5 at 3:30 p.m.
Game-Fest Kids, Teens Dec. 10 at 3:30 p.m.
Edmond Library
Harrah Library
Harrah Library, cont'd
Whodunit Mystery Book Club
Adults Dec. 17 at 1 p.m.
LEGO Club
Kids, Teens Dec. 26 at 3:30 p.m.
Jones Library
Dec. Mindfulness Journal
Teens, Adults Dec. 2, All Day
New Knitters
Adults
Game Night
Dec. 3 and 17 at 6 p.m.
Kids, Teens, Adults Dec. 5 and 19 at 3:30 p.m.
Storytime
Birth-PreK
Children Reading to Dogs
Dec. 6 and 20 at 10 a.m.
Kids Dec. 6 and 20 at 4 p.m.
Kids Craft
Kids Dec. 11 at 4 p.m.
Luther Library
December Scavenger Hunt
All Ages Dec. 2, All Day
December Mindfulness Journal
Teens, Adults Dec. 2, All Day
Storytime
Birth-PreK Dec. 4 and 20 at 10 a.m.
Anime Club*
Teens Dec. 5 at 5 p.m.
Slime Day
Kids
Dungeons and Dragons: Neverland
Storytime
Birth-PreK Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Children Reading to Dogs*
Kids Dec. 2 at 4 p.m.
LEGO Club
All Ages Dec. 3 at 4:30 p.m.
Dec. 6 at 4 p.m.
Adults Dec. 7 at 10 a.m.
Guided Acrylic Painting: Gingerbread Man* Teens Dec. 7 at 2 p.m.
Way Fun Wednesday Birth-PreK Dec. 11 and 18 at 10 a.m.
Resin Ornaments* Teens Dec. 12 at 5 p.m.
Dog Man Day Kids Dec. 13 at 2 p.m.
Mat Yoga* Adults Dec. 16 and 30 at 10 a.m.
Pokemon Club* Kids, Teens Dec. 16 at 4:30 p.m.
After School Art Hour Kids Dec. 17 at 4:30 p.m.
Fandom Trivia Night: My Hero Academia* Teens Dec. 19 at 5 p.m.
Wrap & Yap* Adults Dec. 20 at 1 p.m.
Family Gaming Night* All Ages Dec. 26 at 4:30 p.m.
Vision Boards* All Ages Dec. 30 at 4 p.m.
Noon Years Eve Party All Ages Dec. 31 at 11:30 a.m.
Midwest City Library Nicoma Park Northwest Library
Way Fun Wednesday: Parachute Play
Birth-PreK Dec. 4 at 10 a.m.
Paint and Sip*
Adults Dec. 4 at 6 p.m.
December Mindfulness Journal Teens, Adults Dec. 3, All Day
Community Room Teens, Adults Dec. 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 27 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Children Reading to Dogs Kids Dec. 2 and 16 at 4 p.m.
Vintage Kitchenware: What's In Your Cupboard?*
Adults Dec. 2 at 6 p.m.
Baby Time (Ages Birth-12 mos)*
Birth-PreK Dec. 3, 10, 17 at 9:30 a.m.
Toddler Time (Ages 1-3)* Dec. 4, 11, 18 at 9:30 a.m.
Birth-PreK Dec. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18 at 10:30 a.m.
Tiny Art Show: Drop In Painting Night
Kids, Teens, Adults Dec. 3 at 4:30 p.m.
Preschool Time (Ages 3.5-5)*
Birth-PreK Dec. 5, 12, 19 at 10:30 a.m.
Drop-In DIY Holiday Wrapping Station
Teens, Adults Dec. 5 at 5 p.m.
Dramatic Playtime*
Birth-PreK Dec. 7 at 10 a.m.
Dino Day*
Kids Dec. 7 at 2 p.m.
Library Helpers (Ages 7-10)*
Kids Dec. 8 at 3 p.m.
DIY Christmas Tree Ornament*
Adults Dec. 9 at 6 p.m.
Tiny Art Show Display
Kids, Teens, Adults Dec. 10 - 20, All Day
LEGO Club (Ages 5-12)
Kids Dec. 10 at 4:30 p.m.
Coding With Dash Robots*
Kids Dec. 12 at 4:30 p.m.
Artsy Fartsy Club*
Teens Dec. 12 at 6 p.m.
Sound Bath Meditation*
Adults Dec. 13 at 10:30 a.m.
All Ages Storytime with ASL Interpretation
Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 14 at 9:45am
Carols and Crafts*
All Ages Dec. 14 at 2 p.m.
Puzzle Race!*
Adults Dec. 15 at 2 p.m.
The 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's*
Adults Dec. 16 at 6 p.m.
Animal Adventures: Hippos (Ages 5-12)*
Kids Dec. 17 at 6:30 p.m.
Pink Pony Club*
Teens Dec. 19 at 6 p.m.
Toddler Playtime
Birth-PreK Dec. 21 at 10 a.m.
Shelf Indulgence: YA Book Club*
Teens, Adults Dec. 21 at 2 p.m.
Giant Play Time* Birth-PreK Dec. 27 at 10 a.m.
Come Craft With Me (Ages 5-12)* Kids Dec. 27 at 3 p.m.
Classic Swing Big Band - Holiday Edition! All Ages Dec. 28 at 11 a.m.
Family Game Day: Bingo All Ages Dec. 28 at 2 p.m.
Bad Art Night: Freestyle!* Adults Dec. 30 at 6 p.m.
Noon Year's Eve Celebration* Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 31 at 11:30 a.m.
Ralph Ellison Library
Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE) Adults Dec. 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18 at 10:30 a.m.
Quilting & Crafting Teens, Adults Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 at 11 a.m.
Ralph Ellison LEGO Club All Ages Dec. 4 at 6 p.m.
Free Play Friday* Birth-PreK Dec. 6 and 27 at 11:30 a.m.
Unofficial Warhammer Club Play* Teens, Adults Dec. 8 at 2 p.m.
Tissue Paper Polar Bear Take Home Kit All Ages Dec. 9 - 15, All Day
Anime and Manga Club Teens Dec. 10 at 4:30 p.m.
Ralph Ellison Magic: The Gathering Club Teens, Adults Dec. 11 at 6 p.m.
Beginners Astrology with Priya Desai Teens, Adults Dec. 12 at 6 p.m.
Pet Food Pantry All Ages Dec. 13 at 11:30 a.m.
Season of Giving All Ages Dec. 14 at 1 p.m.
Paint and Sip* Teens, Adults Dec. 16 at 3 p.m.
Evening Family Story Time* Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 16 at 6 p.m.
Teen Craft & Chat Teens Dec. 17 at 4:30 p.m.
Ralph Ellison Library, cont'd
123! Play with Me!*
Birth-PreK Dec. 18 at 10 a.m.
Ralph Ellison LEGO Club Build a Park
All Ages Dec. 18 at 6 p.m.
Storytime Crafternoon for Children
Kids Dec. 19 at 4 p.m.
Game Day
Kids, Teens Dec. 19 at 4 p.m.
Winter Window Mural Art for Children
Kids Dec. 23 at 4 p.m.
Banned Book Club For Parents*
Adults Dec. 28 at 10 a.m.
The Urban Poets
Teens, Adults Dec. 30 at 6 p.m.
Southern Oaks Library
Teen Book Bags*
Birth-PreK Dec. 1 - 20, All Day
Cozy Mystery Readers Club*
Adults Dec. 2 at 1 p.m.
Introductory English As A Second Language (ESL)
Adults Dec. 2, 4, 9, 11 at 6 p.m.
Intermediate Tai Chi*
Adults Dec. 3, 5, 10, 12, 19 at 10:15 a.m.
Maker Tuesday
All Ages Dec. 3 and 10 at 4:30 p.m.
Kids' Holiday Crafts & Tree Trimming*
Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 3 at 6 p.m.
Beginners Line Dancing*
Adults Dec. 4, 11, 18 at 1 p.m.
Homework Help and Reading Buddies*
Kids, Teens, Adults Dec. 4 and 11 at 4:15 p.m.
S.O. Animation Society*
Teens, Adults Dec. 5 at 4:30 p.m.
Holiday Zines for Teens & Tweens*
Kids, Teens Dec. 7 at 11 a.m.
Eco-Friendly Holiday Gift Wrapping Creations*
Adults Dec. 7 at 2:30 p.m.
Cross-Stitch Ornaments*
Adults Dec. 8 at 3 p.m.
Southern Oaks Book Club*
Adults Dec. 10 at 11:30 a.m.
Kids' Book Club*
Kids Dec. 10 at 6 p.m.
DIY Ornament Hour
Adults Dec. 13 at 4:30 p.m.
Winter Solstice Take-Home Kit*
All Ages Dec. 15 - 21, All Day
Children Reading to Dogs* Kids Dec. 15 at 2 p.m.
Kids' Holiday Shoppe Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 17 at 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Southern Oaks Chess Club* All Ages Dec. 27 at 5 p.m.
Noon Year's Eve Celebration* All Ages Dec. 31 at 11:15 a.m.
The Village Library
Baby Storytime Birth-PreK Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 at 10 a.m.
123! Play with Me! Birth-PreK Dec. 3 at 10 a.m.
Children Reading to Dogs Kids Dec. 3 and 17 at 3:30 p.m.
Music with Ginger* Birth-PreK Dec. 5 at 10 a.m.
Movies on The Green All Ages Dec. 5 at 6 p.m.
Teen Advisory Board Teens Dec. 5 at 7 p.m.
Chess Club All Ages Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27 at 4 p.m.
Knitty Committee All Ages Dec. 7 at 10 a.m.
Pop-up Card Workshop All Ages Dec. 8 at 2 p.m.
Teen Take & Make Lit Kit* Teens Dec. 10, All Day
Cool Space Things: Astronomy Take-Home Kit* Teens, Adults Dec. 10, All Day
Kids Space Take-Home Kit*
Kids Dec. 10, All Day
Storytime
Birth-PreK Dec. 10 and 17 at 10 a.m.
Ye Olde Village Yuletide
All Ages
Exam Cram
Teens
Village Book Club
Dec. 14 at 10:30 a.m.
Dec. 17 at 4 p.m.
Adults Dec. 19 at 3 p.m.
Happy Noon Year!
Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 31 at 11 a.m.
Warr Acres Library
Jólabókaflód Creative Writing Chapbook
Teens, Adults 1 - 31, All Day
Dec. Mindfulness Journal
Teens, Adults Dec. 1 - 31, All Day
Life Writing Sunday*
Adults Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22 at 3 p.m.
Pages & Prose Parcel*
Kids
Dec. 2 - 12, All Day
Christmas Tree Ornament Take Home Kits
All Ages Dec. 2 - 7, All Day
S.A.L.T. Council (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together)
Adults Dec. 2 at 10 a.m.
Beginner English as a Second Language (ESL)
Adults Dec. 2, 4, 9, 11 at 12:30 p.m.
Homeschool Coding Club*
Kids, Teens Dec. 3, 10, 17 at 10 a.m.
Coding Club*
Kids, Teens Dec. 3, 10, 17 at 4:30 p.m.
All Ages LEGO Build - Winter Sports
All Ages Dec. 3 at 6:30 p.m.
Creative Writing Wednesday*
Adults Dec. 4, 11, 18 at 5:30 p.m.
Intro to Tech & Typing
Adults Dec. 5 at 10 a.m.
Minecraft Club*
Kids, Teens
Musictime
Dec. 5 at 6 p.m.
Birth-PreK Dec. 6 at 10 a.m.
Edible Penguin Palooza Take Home Kit
Dec. 9 Dec. 9-15, All Day
Pour Your Own Gift Candle*
Adults
STEM Club - Science Fun!*
Kids
Storytime
Dec. 10 at 6:30 p.m.
Dec. 12 at 10 a.m.
Birth-PreK, Kids Dec. 13 at 10 a.m.
Winter Ornament Making with Paperclay*
Kids, Teens, Adults Dec. 14 at 10 a.m.
STEM Club - Science Fun!*
Kids Dec. 14 at 2 p.m.
Paracord Key Chain - Take Home Kit
All Ages Dec. 16-23, All Day
Winter Family Take-Home Kit
Kids, Teens, Adults Dec. 16, All Day
Job Skills Success Workshop
Adults Dec. 19 at 10 a.m.
Quilting Club*
Teens, Adults Dec. 19 at 5:30 p.m.
Art Time
Birth-PreK Dec. 20 at 10 a.m.
Family Art Time
Kids Dec. 21 at 2 p.m.
123! Play with Me!
Birth-PreK Dec. 27 at 10 a.m.
LEGO Club
Kids Dec. 28 at 2 p.m.
Life Writing Sunday*
Adults Dec. 29 at 3 p.m.
Wright Library
Winter Holiday Themed Family Take and Make Kit*
All Ages Dec. 3-7, All Day
Hot Chocolate and Coffee for Cowboy Christmas
All Ages Dec. 7 at 9 a.m.
STEAM-tastic Surprise Take Home Kit*
Kids, Teens, Adults Dec. 10 - 14, All Day
Around the World: Holidays at Empower OKC
Kids Dec. 17 at 5 p.m.
1 ALMONTE 2727 SW 59th, OKC, (405) 606-3575
3 BETHANY 6700 NW 35th, Bethany, (405) 789-8363
4 CAPITOL HILL 327 SW 27th, OKC, (405) 634-6308
6 DEL CITY 4330 SE 15th, Del
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