America250 Programming Grant (Oklahoma) is sponsored by Oklahoma Department of Libraries. This grant enables libraries to support public programming connected to the America 250 commemoration, encouraging civic engagement, historical reflection, and community dialogue.

Due to Allen Wright Building renovations, our services are temporarily relocated to the Will Rogers Building in the Capitol complex, 2401 N. Lincoln Blvd, Room C12. Access to collections will have to be requested in advance.

If you are a land surveyor seeking access to corner records or filing a new corner record, please call (405) 522-3580 for assistance. In 2026, the United States will mark 250 years since its founding through <b>America250</b>, a nationwide commemoration culminating on July 4.

The initiative invites communities to explore our shared history, reflect on democratic values, and engage with the stories that have shaped the nation through year-long programs and events focused on learning and connection. </p>\n<p>The anniversary is more than a celebration; it provides a framework for communities to design programs that explore history, encourage dialogue, and bring people together.

Through thoughtfully planned activities, communities can highlight local stories, foster understanding, and connect individual experiences to the broader national narrative. </p>\n"}}" id="text-d703065670" class="cmp-text"> In 2026, the United States will mark 250 years since its founding through America250 , a nationwide commemoration culminating on July 4.

The initiative invites communities to explore our shared history, reflect on democratic values, and engage with the stories that have shaped the nation through year-long programs and events focused on learning and connection. The anniversary is more than a celebration; it provides a framework for communities to design programs that explore history, encourage dialogue, and bring people together.

Through thoughtfully planned activities, communities can highlight local stories, foster understanding, and connect individual experiences to the broader national narrative. America250 Public Library Programming Manual Library Activities and Events As trusted community spaces for learning, preservation, and storytelling, libraries are uniquely positioned to help bring America250 to life at the local level.

Across Oklahoma, public libraries will offer programs and events that explore history, elevate community voices, and connect national themes to local experiences. </p>\n<p>America250 programming in libraries may include author talks, exhibits, storytelling and history projects, book discussions, and hands-on activities that invite community members of all ages to engage with America’s stories in meaningful ways.

These programs are designed to reflect local interests and perspectives while contributing to a shared statewide and national celebration. </p>\n<p>To support library participation, the Oklahoma Department of Libraries is offering an America250 Programming Grant. Funding is provided by a Library Services and Technology (LSTA) grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

ODL will continue sharing information about America250-related programming and opportunities as they become available. Look for America250 library activities and events in your community throughout the year and join your local library in exploring the stories, ideas, and experiences that connect us.

</p>\n"}}" id="text-7c975a1d33" class="cmp-text"> As trusted community spaces for learning, preservation, and storytelling, libraries are uniquely positioned to help bring America250 to life at the local level. Across Oklahoma, public libraries will offer programs and events that explore history, elevate community voices, and connect national themes to local experiences.

America250 programming in libraries may include author talks, exhibits, storytelling and history projects, book discussions, and hands-on activities that invite community members of all ages to engage with America’s stories in meaningful ways. These programs are designed to reflect local interests and perspectives while contributing to a shared statewide and national celebration.

To support library participation, the Oklahoma Department of Libraries is offering an America250 Programming Grant. Funding is provided by a Library Services and Technology (LSTA) grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). ODL will continue sharing information about America250-related programming and opportunities as they become available.

Look for America250 library activities and events in your community throughout the year and join your local library in exploring the stories, ideas, and experiences that connect us. Find Your Local Public Library America250 Programming Grant Planning an America250 event at your library? The Oklahoma Department of Libraries is offering America250 Programming Grants of up to $2,500 to help bring your ideas to life.

The America250 Programming Manual below includes activity ideas and adaptable program models to help you get started.

</p>\n<p>Funding may support initiatives such as community time capsules, oral history projects, local history programs, intergenerational storytelling events, civic engagement activities, art and essay showcases, student design challenges, speaker series, exhibits, book discussions, and other programs that explore the nation’s history, reflect on the present, and imagine the future.

</p>\n<p>Oklahoma Public Libraries, Library Systems, and Tribal Libraries eligible for State Aid in FY25 may apply. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are expended. <span style=\"font-size: 1.

125rem; letter-spacing: 0. 43px;\">Funding is provided by a Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). </span></p>\n"}}" id="text-e0c79074dd" class="cmp-text"> Planning an America250 event at your library?

The Oklahoma Department of Libraries is offering America250 Programming Grants of up to $2,500 to help bring your ideas to life. The America250 Programming Manual below includes activity ideas and adaptable program models to help you get started.

Funding may support initiatives such as community time capsules, oral history projects, local history programs, intergenerational storytelling events, civic engagement activities, art and essay showcases, student design challenges, speaker series, exhibits, book discussions, and other programs that explore the nation’s history, reflect on the present, and imagine the future.

Oklahoma Public Libraries, Library Systems, and Tribal Libraries eligible for State Aid in FY25 may apply. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are expended. Funding is provided by a Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

Learn more, review eligibility requirements America250 Programming Manual To support America250 programming in Oklahoma libraries, the America250 Public Library Programming Manual offers flexible, adaptable ideas designed to help libraries create meaningful, community-centered experiences. The manual highlights ways libraries can use storytelling, history, and community engagement to explore America250 themes at the local level.

</p>\n<p>Each program concept includes a clear description, step-by-step guidance, and suggestions for adapting activities to different audiences, along with an appendix of curated resources. Together, these tools support libraries in developing programs that spark engagement and help bridge national conversations at the local level during America250.

</p>\n"}}" id="text-1b9793a6bd" class="cmp-text"> To support America250 programming in Oklahoma libraries, the America250 Public Library Programming Manual offers flexible, adaptable ideas designed to help libraries create meaningful, community-centered experiences. The manual highlights ways libraries can use storytelling, history, and community engagement to explore America250 themes at the local level.

Each program concept includes a clear description, step-by-step guidance, and suggestions for adapting activities to different audiences, along with an appendix of curated resources. Together, these tools support libraries in developing programs that spark engagement and help bridge national conversations at the local level during America250.

America250 Public Library Programming Manual The Oklahoma Department of Libraries and the Oklahoma Center for the Book are using the America250 theme to bring stories of history, leadership, and adventure to life for Oklahoma’s youngest readers through Read Across Oklahoma. This year’s event connects early literacy with America250 by introducing students to American stories through reading, imagination, and interactive learning.

</p>\n<p>This approach is reflected in the featured book, <i>Will Rogers and His Great Presidential Pals </i>by Bart Taylor, which offers a playful introduction to American leaders through the wit and wisdom of Oklahoma’s own Will Rogers. By centering storytelling and engagement, Read Across Oklahoma shows how America250 programming can be adapted for young audiences while fostering a lifelong love of reading.

</p>\n<p><b>This summer, Read Across Oklahoma is hitting the road</b> with visits to local libraries across the state, bringing these stories directly into communities. Library locations and dates will be announced soon.

</p>\n"}}" id="text-93047bc9a6" class="cmp-text"> The Oklahoma Department of Libraries and the Oklahoma Center for the Book are using the America250 theme to bring stories of history, leadership, and adventure to life for Oklahoma’s youngest readers through Read Across Oklahoma. This year’s event connects early literacy with America250 by introducing students to American stories through reading, imagination, and interactive learning.

This approach is reflected in the featured book, Will Rogers and His Great Presidential Pals by Bart Taylor, which offers a playful introduction to American leaders through the wit and wisdom of Oklahoma’s own Will Rogers. By centering storytelling and engagement, Read Across Oklahoma shows how America250 programming can be adapted for young audiences while fostering a lifelong love of reading.

This summer, Read Across Oklahoma is hitting the road with visits to local libraries across the state, bringing these stories directly into communities. Library locations and dates will be announced soon. Learn more about Read Across Oklahoma The <b><i>Moments That Made US</i></b> Print-On-Demand Exhibition explores the ideals at the heart of the Declaration of Independence through key moments in America’s 250-year history.

Developed through a multi-state collaboration and adapted from an exhibition by <a href=\"https://www. historycolorado. org/exhibit/moments-made-us\" target=\"_blank\">History Colorado</a>, the Oklahoma initiative is organized by the <b>Oklahoma Historical Society</b> and made available to institutions statewide in partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Libraries.

</p>\n<p>As part of the America250 commemoration, Oklahoma libraries, museums, and civic organizations can use this free, customizable exhibition to engage their communities in exploring the ideas and moments that have shaped our nation. The exhibition features ready-to-use panels that organizations can easily adapt, afford, and make their own. </p>\n<p><a href=\"https://www.

okhistory. org/historycenter/museum-resources\" target=\"_blank\">Access the <i>Moments That Made Us</i> Print On Demand Exhibition. </a></p>\n<p><a href=\"https://drive.

google. com/file/d/12EWSPiXgB7Dm_3oO_pAx5wLcCq3_ISv7/view? usp=sharing\" target=\"_blank\">Preview the implementation guide.

</a></p>\n"}}" id="text-a72207242f" class="cmp-text"> The Moments That Made US Print-On-Demand Exhibition explores the ideals at the heart of the Declaration of Independence through key moments in America’s 250-year history.

Developed through a multi-state collaboration and adapted from an exhibition by History Colorado , the Oklahoma initiative is organized by the Oklahoma Historical Society and made available to institutions statewide in partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Libraries.

As part of the America250 commemoration, Oklahoma libraries, museums, and civic organizations can use this free, customizable exhibition to engage their communities in exploring the ideas and moments that have shaped our nation. The exhibition features ready-to-use panels that organizations can easily adapt, afford, and make their own. Access the Moments That Made Us Print On Demand Exhibition.

Preview the implementation guide. Walls That Work: A Practical Guide to Commissioning Murals <i><b>Walls That Work: A Practical Guide to Commissioning Murals</b></i>, developed by the Oklahoma Arts Council through its Art in Public Places program, is a practical resource for communities, organizations, and property owners interested in creating mural projects.

The guide walks through the full process, including defining the vision, selecting the right wall, securing funding, working with artists, and managing installation. It is designed to support projects of any size and helps ensure mural efforts are well planned and aligned with community goals. </p>\n<p>Murals are one of the most visible and accessible forms of public art.

They bring creativity into everyday spaces and contribute to the identity of a place. With mural projects growing across Oklahoma, including those connected to the Route 66 centennial in 2026, this guide provides a clear roadmap for creating artwork that is meaningful and sustainable. It also includes best practices for long term care, helping communities maintain these projects over time.

</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://www. arts. ok.

gov/pdf/aipp/OAPP_Walls_That_Work_040226. pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Download the Guide. </a></p>\n"}}" id="text-2b6ca942f1" class="cmp-text"> Walls That Work: A Practical Guide to Commissioning Murals , developed by the Oklahoma Arts Council through its Art in Public Places program, is a practical resource for communities, organizations, and property owners interested in creating mural projects.

The guide walks through the full process, including defining the vision, selecting the right wall, securing funding, working with artists, and managing installation. It is designed to support projects of any size and helps ensure mural efforts are well planned and aligned with community goals. Murals are one of the most visible and accessible forms of public art.

They bring creativity into everyday spaces and contribute to the identity of a place. With mural projects growing across Oklahoma, including those connected to the Route 66 centennial in 2026, this guide provides a clear roadmap for creating artwork that is meaningful and sustainable. It also includes best practices for long term care, helping communities maintain these projects over time.

Discover America’s Presidential Libraries Presidential Libraries, part of the National Archives and Records Administration, are located across the United States and offer opportunities to explore the lives and legacies of U.S. presidents. These sites feature interactive museums, public programs, educational events, and extensive archives for research, making them valuable destinations for both families and scholars.

</p>\n<p>From the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum to the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum and beyond, each location provides a unique look at American history and leadership. Visitors are encouraged to explore a nearby library and connect with the stories that have shaped the nation.

</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://www. archives. gov/presidential-libraries/visit\" target=\"_blank\">Visit and Connect.

</a></p>\n"}}" id="text-85e892ff81" class="cmp-text"> Presidential Libraries, part of the National Archives and Records Administration, are located across the United States and offer opportunities to explore the lives and legacies of U.S. presidents. These sites feature interactive museums, public programs, educational events, and extensive archives for research, making them valuable destinations for both families and scholars.

From the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum to the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum and beyond, each location provides a unique look at American history and leadership. Visitors are encouraged to explore a nearby library and connect with the stories that have shaped the nation.

America250 National Efforts Official nonpartisan national effort to engage every American in celebrating and commemorating the U.S.’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Join in on the Celebration Libraries and museums are engaging communities through programs and partnerships focused on history, culture, and civic learning for America250.

The Smithsonian’s America250 work includes exhibitions, events, and public programs that explore the nation’s past, present, and future. Oklahoma Department of Libraries Enhanced website made possible with American Rescue Plan Act funds as administered by Institute of Museum and Library Services. <b><a href=\"/content/sok-wcm/en/libraries/about-odl.

html\">About</a></b></p>\r\n<p><b><a href=\"/content/sok-wcm/en/libraries/about-odl/contact-info. html\">Contact Us</a></b></p>\r\n<p><a href=\"/content/sok-wcm/en/libraries/about-odl/legislatively-mandated-disclosures/accessibility. html\">Accessibility</a></p>\r\n<p><b><a href=\"/content/sok-wcm/en/libraries/collections.

html\">Collections</a></b></p>\r\n<p><b><a title=\"Digital Archives\" href=\"/content/sok-wcm/en/libraries/digital-resources. html\" target=\"_self\">Digital Resources</a></b></p>\r\n<p><b><a href=\"/content/sok-wcm/en/libraries/oklahomans/public-library-locator. html\">Find Your Public Library</a></b></p>\r\n"}}" id="text-32aa465c1f" class="cmp-text">