info Magazine - April 2022

info magazine

inside info:

The Empire and the Temple p4 Connect with Your Library p8

visit us at metrolibrary.org

April 2022

April 2022 · Metropolitan Library System · info magazine

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new info We are extremely excited the “new” Belle Isle Library will reopen on April 8. The remodel has been more than a year in the making and we are ready – aren’t you? Join us for our ribbon cutting and grand opening at 3:30pm on Friday, April 8 at our original address – 5501 N. Villa Ave., in Oklahoma City.

The library will be much larger with an additional 10,000 square feet. There are two meeting rooms that can be combined to make one very large space. The library also includes more study rooms, a children’s programming space, a dedicated area for teenagers, and a studio “makerspace.” The library will feature new furniture, new computers, and much more parking. Bright colors, floor-to-ceiling windows in some spaces, and modern materials will make use of natural light to highlight the library’s look and feel. We can’t wait for you to see it!

We are also excited to celebrate National Library Week in April. This annual celebration highlights the valuable role libraries and library staff play in transforming lives and communities. Visit our website: metrolibrary.org/nationallibraryweek to discover how you can celebrate by using our library resources.

Larry Nash White

Larry Nash White, Ph.D., M.S.L.S Executive Director of the Metropolitan Library System

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info magazine · Metropolitan Library System · April 2022

MLS Executive Director Larry Nash White, Ph.D., M.S.L.S.

inside info

Editors Kellie Delaney Paula Joseph-Johnson

4 The Empire and the Temple

Special Collections Librarians dig deep into the legend of a church’s location, using resources available with your library card.

Designer David Hoffner Contributing Writers Tess Botkin Danielle Bunner Kristine Magers Judith Matthews Laura Pool Michele Ramsdell

6 In Review

Need a good book to read this month? Check out our reviews for something for all ages.

info magazine METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM 300 Park Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Editorial: (405) 231-8650 Email: askalibrarian@metrolibrary.org

8 Connect with Your Library

MLS Commission Brian Alford, Chair Cynthia Friedemann, Vice Chair Craig Woodruff, Disbursing Agent Larry Nash White, Secretary (non-voting) Nancy Anthony Bo Birdsong Ann Caine Jennifer Edmunson Arlita Harris Shamia Jackson Rachel Johnson Elizabeth Larios Penny McCaleb Tracy McDaniel Richard McQuillar

D.J. Morgan Mukesh Patel Kim Patterson Chaya Pennington Leah Rubio Jay Scambler Judy Smith Beth Toland Susan Tucker Tracey Zeeck

We are celebrating National Library Week and highlighting the essential role libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities.

10 Featured Events

featured events

With many libraries hosting in-person programs again, head to our calendar of events and find some great events to attend.

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 Marketing & Communications, 300 Park Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73102.

Follow us on social media

On the cover

Front and inside cover photo of Belle Isle provided by OKCTalk.com

April 2022 · Metropolitan Library System · info magazine

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The Empire and the Temple Words by Judie Matthews, Graphics by Chris Cockrum

Last month we talked about creating a fuller view of history, and how using multiple primary sources (accounts written by those who experienced an event) allows us to see many sides of an event. By comparing competing firsthand narratives, we learn more about what happened and why. What motivated the people involved? What did they stand to gain or lose?

But what about when we find discrepancies in stories? Things that just don’t add up. What’s the motivation there? What differences can we see between secondary source documents (items written later by those who were not at the event) and primary sources?

By 1905, First Baptist Church had outgrown their building at 113 NW 2nd (near the former Sandridge tower). There was much discussion between the pastor, deacons, and laity of the church about its next location. Should it be out in the suburbs, near NW 12th? Up a steep hill on NW 5th? Pastor Henry Porter advocated to build the new church, dubbed The White Temple, on land at NW 3rd and Broadway claiming, “It's the best location in the world ... Near saloons, pool rooms, hotels, and theaters. A church on a noisy corner where thousands of homeless young men pass each day.” Porter is quoted as saying something to this effect in two books on the history of First Baptist, First Family (1990) and Lighthouse on the Corner (1964). Both only cite Church Echoes, a newsletter founded by Rev. Porter, for this pronouncement.

I found these sources when I was researching downtown churches for an upcoming walking tour. Intrigued by the den of sin described, I wanted to know more about the surrounding businesses where the preacher planned to plant his church. There are a couple of ways to figure out who or what was at a specific address on a previous date, one is a city directory, a precursor to phone books. Looking at the cross streets of the proposed church, I found such scandalous nearby businesses as an ice cream factory, a lumber warehouse, several doctors and dentists, a candy store, bakery, grocers, drug stores, and the most risqué of all, an insurance office. What 4

further makes Rev. Porter’s claim ring hollow is the sheer carnality of the location they were leaving.

West 2nd was a hotbed for “sleaze” in the early 1900s. According to And Satan Came Also (the masterwork on OKC immorality) two blocks west of First Baptist’s initial location was “Big Anne’s Empire.” Described as a “crimecenter of the first magnitude,” the block currently occupied by the OKC Museum of Art was home to no less than five brothels and dancehalls.

The biggest and bawdiest of them all was run by “Big” Anne Wynn. And while the proposed location for the church shares its block with boarding houses, the boarding house residents of West 2nd were frank about their line of work.

Dozens of women living on the street listed their profession as “prostitute” on the 1900 census.

So why did Rev. Porter advocate moving away from all this to relocate to the “midst of humanity”? Perhaps he’d had enough of being in the thick of it and wanted just a little less humanity around him. Regardless of his true intentions, the story about moving to a seedy part of town motivated lots of excitement and financial giving. Today, we can still see the truth. By checking primary sources (personal narratives, census records, city directories) we can cobble together a picture of our town long ago. Armed with that information, we can lend a more critical eye to what we read. All of these resources are available to Metro Library users.

Maybe see what dirt you can dig up! u

info magazine · Metropolitan Library System · April 2022

April 2022 · Metropolitan Library System · info magazine

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in review

Portrait of a Thief

by Grace D. Li

FICTION LI

The Donut Trap

by Julie Tieu

FICTION TIE

Available formats: Book, eAudioBook, eBook

Available formats: Book, eBook, eAudiobook

Five Chinese-American college students set out to steal back illegally acquired Chinese artifacts from British, European, and American art museums. Will Chen, art history buff and mastermind recruits his sister, Irene, who can talk her way out of anything. They convince their childhood friend Daniel to join who just happens to be the son of an FBI art crimes investigator. Irene, engineering student and part-time street racer, becomes their getaway driver, and Alex, software engineer, learns to hack into museum security systems.

Art history buffs will love the descriptions of the museums and conversations about how art is and isn’t ethically acquired.

This book also portrays diverse perspectives on the diaspora. A character who was born in China and longs for the country of their childhood. A character who was born in America who doesn’t feel much of a connection to their parent’s homeland. Characters who come from wealth and privilege and characters who don’t.

Differing parental expectations. It all creates unique motivations to participate in the heist and a layered story.

Jasmine Tran does not have it all figured out. Even after graduating from UCLA, she’s still working at her parents’ donut shop.

While the familial and societal pressure to do something with her life is high, Jasmine just can’t seem to figure it out. Enter Alex Lai, her college crush. At first Jasmine thinks this is going to be smooth sailing: finally, someone her parents can approve of! But after a dinner between their two families reveals unexpected prejudices, the course seems unclear. This book will hit home with anyone who thought going to college was the answer, only to find out that a degree doesn’t necessarily mean guaranteed happiness or success.

The story supplies an interesting look at the pressures facing first generation immigrants and what happens when they don’t feel like they live up to them. While this book is often billed as a romance, it really reads more like an insightful coming of age story. Be prepared because you will want a donut while you’re reading this one.

reviewed by: Kristine Magers is a collection development librarian who purchases adult fiction for Metro Library. When she’s not reading, she’s crossstitching or watching too much reality TV.

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info magazine · Metropolitan Library System · April 2022

reviewed by: Tess Botkin is a librarian at Northwest Library. When she isn’t planning a storytime or making a new felt set, you can find her climbing, skating or cycling to her next adventure.

The Sun Down Motel

by Simone St. James

FICTION SAI

West with Giraffes

by Lynda Rutledge

FICTION RUT

Available formats: Book, eBook, eAudioBook

Available formats: Book

This book is a delightfully atmospheric mystery that brings to mind the young sleuth styling of Veronica Mars and the creepily compelling vibes of Jac Jemc’s The Grip of It. It features two interwoven storylines: It’s 1982 and Vic Delaney is headed to find herself and her fame in the Big Apple, yet somehow instead ends up as a night clerk at the rapidly deteriorating Sun Down Motel. Weird sounds and sights abound as her shifts pass by often without her seeing a single living soul. In between checking in the scant guests, she notices some unusual happenings that may be connected to a serial killer ….

Fast forward to 2017, where we meet Carly, a young college student is hoping to discover what happened to her aunt who disappeared over 20 years ago. Carly takes a position at the very same hotel where her aunt vanished, at but begins to realize all is not well in Fell, NY, especially the Sun Down Motel.

Overall more thriller than horror, there were some truly creepy moments and characters. If you are looking for a fast-moving paranormal suspense novel with strong female characters, look no further!

Dust Bowl orphan Woodrow (Woody) Nickel, with the clothes on his back and a few coins from his mother’s coin jar, makes his way east to New York harbor, arriving amidst the Great Hurricane of 1938. As luck would have it–if you call living through the Dust Bowl and now a hurricane lucky, Woody helps rescue two giraffes bound for the San Diego Zoo. Told in first person narrative as he lives out his last days in a VA facility, this story chronicles the adventures of 17-year-old Woody, as he, along with zookeeper Riley Jones, and aspiring female photographer “Red,” transport the two giraffes across the country. Each state line offers new challenges; bad roads, thieves, weather, but their collective love for the giraffes, and sheer determination keep them going. This wonderful piece of historical fiction will keep readers turning pages to follow the action and antics of this unlikely crew as they successful deliver the giraffes to San Diego.

reviewed by: Laura Pool is a librarian at Bethany Library and has always had a soft spot for books. When not at work, she enjoys collecting vintage wonders and creating fantastical costumes, especially absurd ones.

reviewed by: Michele Baker Ramsdell is the access manager II at Almonte Library. She loves historical and genealogical research and serves as the board president at the Edmond Historical Society and Museum. You can also find her riding her bike around Edmond or at home on her sewing machine creating quilts.

April 2022 · Metropolitan Library System · info magazine

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Connect with Your Library – National Library Week

By Danielle Bunner, Engagement Specialist II at the Edmond Library If you are like me, you may have never heard of National Library Week. It is embarrassing to admit I knew nothing about this annual national event. But librarians are people too; as a good librarian I did what I was trained to do: I Googled it.

Since 1958, National Library Week has been sponsored by the American Library Association and observed in all types of libraries (school, public, academic, and special) across the country during the month of April. National Library Week is a time to highlight the essential roles libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities. It is a chance to celebrate libraries and the people who work in them.

The Metropolitan Library System (MLS) strives to be a safe place where everyone – regardless of race, age, gender, economic status, religious beliefs – is welcome. We want our libraries to be the heart and reflection of our communities, a place where people who would not otherwise know one another can interact. Even as the pandemic brought challenges and changes to how we serve guests, library staff continued meeting needs across our 19 communities.

What else do our libraries do? Libraries are more than glorious places with endless books. Our branches function as technology centers with freely available computers, printing, faxing, and scanning. There are Wi-Fi hotspots and Chromebooks guests may check out for at-home connections. Libraries are entertainment complexes featuring access to streaming services, library materials, and programming that crosses cultures and ways of thinking to challenge, entertain, and educate adults and children of all ages.

The Metropolitan Library System libraries may also be learning centers, providing makerspace opportunities, meeting spaces for organizations, and centers for thinking. You can visit for help with computers, to gather with others, to study, learn, create resumes, build skills, access information – and yes, read a great book.

All that is worth celebrating.

Join us for National Library Week April 3-9 by visiting your local branch. Tuesday, April 4 is a day set aside to celebrate the library staff. If you visit a library that day, take a moment to say hello or thank our fabulous employees. Personal connections with our guests are the foundation of strong communities. As the Metropolitan Library Systems returns to in-person programming (and trust me, we are excited!) our staff looks forward to meeting you – for the first time or the ten-thousandth. u

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info magazine · Metropolitan Library System · April 2022

Play a Little Metro Trivia

8. How many physical items were circulated at MLS in 2021? a. 709, 202 b. 622, 981 c. 549,762 d. 508, 012

11. Formerly named the Dunbar Library, which MLS branch recently celebrated 100 years of service? a. Downtown b. Wright c. Souther Oaks d. Ralph Ellison

5. A 10. A

4. How many databases can MLS access? a. 154 c. 62 b. 50 d. 128

7. How many physical items are available for checkout across all of MLS? a. 1 million b. 822,709 c. 900,000 d. 988,606

10. How many virtual programs did MLS host in 2021? a. 2,213 b. 1,240 c. 450 d. 110

4. A 9. C

3. What is the most popular book checked out in 2021 by MLS patrons? a. The Invisible Life of Adie LaRue by V.E. Schwab b. Bridgerton Collection, Vol. 1 by Julia Quinn c. The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah d. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

6. How many digital (audio and eBook) titles were checked out via Libby in 2021? a. 1.929 million b. 2.755 million c. 4.026 million d. 3.142 million

9. How many patrons participated in the 2021 Summer Reading Program? a. 4,025 people b. 6,912 people c. 7,693 people d. 9,928 people

3. C 8. C

2. Which public library is the busiest in the state of OK? a. Norman Public Library – Central b. Edmond Library c. The Tahlequah Public Library d. Tulsa City County Library

5. When was the first MLS library founded? a. 1898 b. 1901 c. 1946 d. 1880

Answers: 1. D 2. B 6. B 7. D 11. D

1. With the MLS Experience Pass, you may get free access to which museums: a. The Oklahoma City Museum of Art b. Oklahoma History Center/ Oklahoma Historical Society c. Oklahoma Science Museum d. All the above

April 2022 · Metropolitan Library System · info magazine

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april featured events

Craftivity Night: Easter* Kids

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 1) Online Adults Apr. 11 at 6:00pm Teen Anime Club Online* Teens

To see the latest information about library programs and events, click on the Attend menu on the MLS website: metrolibrary.org. We have events in person, online, and through take-home kits.

Let's Learn About Ramadan - Take-Home Kit Kids Warr Acres Library

Apr. 1 at 10:30am

Apr. 1 - 8

Stay Active & Independent for Life (SAIL) Online* Adults Apr. 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, 27 at 10:00am Online Author Hour: YA Contemporary with Julie Buxbaum, Sarah Henning & Julian Winters Live on Metro's Facebook Page Teens, Adults Apr. 16 at 2:00pm Take-Home Kit : Feed the Birds with Francis of Assisi Birth-PreK, Kids Apr. 18 - 24 Belle Isle Library Children's Day/ Dia De Los Niños All Ages Capitol Hill Library

Mother Goose on the Loose Online* Birth-PreK

Apr. 12 at 6:00pm Apr. 13 at 10:00am

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 1) Online Adults Apr. 13 at 6:00pm Drawing Basics: Nature, In-person & Zoom* All Ages Apr. 13 at 6:30pm

Featured Events Itty Bitty Dance Party in the Park* Birth-PreK Edmond Library

Apr. 11 at 6:00pm

Apr. 30 at 1:00pm

Almonte Game Night All Ages Blackout Poetry Earth Day Kit All Ages

Apr. 18 - 24

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 1) Online Adults Apr. 18 at 6:00pm Teen Anime Club Online* Teens

Apr. 19 at 6:00pm

Pre-K Storytime Online* Birth-PreK

Apr. 20 at 10:00am

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 1) Online Adults Apr. 20 at 6:00pm Starting a Food Garden* Adults

Apr. 20 at 7:00pm

Make Your Own Diffuser Bracelet w/ Essential Oils* Adults Apr. 21 at 6:30pm Craftivity Night: Ramadan Moon* Kids

Almonte Library

Apr. 14 at 6:30pm

Apr. 25 at 6:00pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 1) Online Adults Apr. 4 at 6:00pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 1) Online Adults Apr. 25 at 6:00pm

Teen Anime Club Online* Teens

Apr. 5 at 6:00pm

Edgar Allan Poe Escape Room* Teens

Apr. 26 at 6:00pm

Pre-K Storytime Online* Birth-PreK

Apr. 6 at 10:00am

Edgar Allan Poe Escape Room* Teens

Apr. 26 at 7:00pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 1) Online Adults Apr. 6 at 6:00pm

Mother Goose on the Loose Online* Birth-PreK

Tweens Learn About Money Smart Week Kit Kids

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 1) Online Adults Apr. 27 at 6:00pm

Brit Lit Book Club Online* Adults 10

Apr. 9 - 16 Apr. 10 at 4:00pm

info magazine · Metropolitan Library System · April 2022

Almonte Game Night All Ages

Apr. 27 at 10:00am

Apr. 28 at 6:30pm

Belle Isle Library

Bethany Library

Adult Take and Make Kit: Marbled Stationery Adults

Apr. 8 - 15

Bethany StoryWalk® All Ages

Early Childhood Take-Home Kit : Construction Trucks Birth-PreK Apr. 8 - 15

Paper Crafts with the Cricut Maker* Teens, Adults

Teen Take and Make Kit: Japanese Book Binding Teens

Spoticus Out Of This World* Kids

Casey & Minna Concert All Ages Lucas Ross Concert Kids

Apr. 8 - 15

Apr. 8 at 4:15pm Apr. 9 at 10:30am

Apr. 1 - 16 Apr. 3 at 2:00pm Apr. 4 - 10

Rocket Readers Kids

Apr. 4 at 4:30pm

Virtual Rocket Readers * Kids

Apr. 4 at 6:30pm

Jigsaw Puzzle Swap for Adults and Children All Ages

Apr. 9 at 2:00pm

Traditional Indigenous Medicine* All Ages, Adults

Apr. 6 at 10:00am

Sam Kahre Concert All Ages

Apr. 9 at 2:00pm

Coffee and Crafts* Adults

Apr. 6 at 10:30am

Outdoor Games Extravaganza All Ages

Apr. 9 at 9:00am

Finger Knitted Butterflies* Kids, Teens, Adults

Elementary Take-Home Kits: Sun Art Prints Kids Edgar Cruz Concert All Ages Belle Isle Book Group Adults

Apr. 11 - 15

Stories and Fun* All Ages

Apr. 8 at 4:00pm Apr. 10 at 2:00pm

Apr. 11 at 6:30pm

Beaded Bunny Kids

Apr. 13 at 11:00am

Rocket Readers Kids

Apr. 11 at 4:30pm

Virtual Rocket Readers * Kids

Apr. 11 at 6:30pm

Elementary Take-Home Kit: Haiku Tunnel Books Kids

Apr. 18 - 30

Apr. 11 - 16

Take-Home Kit : Erasure Poetry for Adults and Teens Teens, Adults Apr. 18 - 24

Computer Coach Adults

Take-Home Kit : Feed the Birds with Francis of Assisi Birth-PreK, Kids Apr. 18 - 24

Recycled Creation Station* All Ages, Kids

Kids Learning Club with OKC Beautiful: Litter/Recycling* Kids Apr. 18 at 4:15pm

Bethany StoryWalk® All Ages

Paper Notebook Embroidery Teens

Apr. 19 at 6:00pm

Rocket Readers Kids

Apr. 18 at 4:30pm

Outdoor Family Storytime Birth-PreK, Kids

Apr. 19 at 9:30am

Virtual Rocket Readers* Kids

Apr. 18 at 6:30pm

Kids Learning Club with OKC Beautiful: Conservation* Kids Apr. 25 at 4:15pm

Computer Coach Adults

Apr. 21 at 5:00pm

Fabric -Covered Terra Cotta Pots* Adults

Apr. 28 at 6:30pm

Share the Love With Furry Friends* All Ages

Apr. 24 at 2:00pm

Baking Cookies for Eid Al Fitr* Kids, Teens, Adults

Apr. 30 at 2:00pm

Rocket Readers Kids

Apr. 25 at 4:30pm

Apr. 13 at 10:00am Apr. 14 at 4:00pm Apr. 18 - 30

April 2022 · Metropolitan Library System · info magazine

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Bethany Library, cont.

Virtual Rocket Readers* Kids

Apr. 25 at 6:30pm

Greek and Latin Vocab Roots* Teens, Adults

Apr. 13 at 4:30pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner Online Adults Apr. 14 at 6:00pm

Infant Crisis Services' BabyMobile Birth-PreK

Apr. 26 at 10:00am

Earth Day Take-Home Kit* Teens, Adults

Bethany Book Club* Adults

Apr. 26 at 11:00am

Teen Poetry Workshop Series* Teens

Apr. 18 - 22 Apr. 18 at 5:30pm

Personal Finance Coach Teens, Adults

Apr. 26 at 5:00pm

Community and Coffee Online with Cacahuate* Adults Apr. 18 at 9:00am

Computer Coach Adults

Apr. 27 at 2:00pm

Tech Help* Adults

Apr. 19 at 1:00pm

OKC Ballet: From Page to Stage* Kids

Apr. 30 at 1:00pm

Homework & Reading Help Kids

Apr. 19 at 4:30pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner Online Adults Apr. 19 at 6:00pm

Capitol Hill Library Teen Poetry Workshop Series* Teens

Apr. 4 at 5:30pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner Online Adults Apr. 21 at 6:00pm

Community and Coffee Online with Cacahuate* Adults Apr. 4 at 9:00am

OKCine Latino - Youth Film Institute Screening Teens Apr. 23 at 12:00pm

Tech Help* Adults

Apr. 5 at 1:00pm

OKCine Latino - Youth Film Institute Screening Teens Apr. 24 at 1:00pm

Homework & Reading Help Kids

Apr. 5 at 4:30pm

Spoticus Out Of This World* Kids

Apr. 25 - 30

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner Online Adults Apr. 5 at 6:00pm

Teen Poetry Workshop Series* Teens

Greek and Latin Vocab Roots* Teens, Adults

Community and Coffee Online with Cacahuate* Adults Apr. 25 at 9:00am

Apr. 6 at 4:30pm

Apr. 25 at 5:30pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner Online Adults Apr. 7 at 6:00pm

Tech Help* Adults

Apr. 26 at 1:00pm

Teen Poetry Workshop Series* Teens

Homework & Reading Help Kids

Apr. 26 at 4:30pm

Apr. 11 at 5:30pm

Community and Coffee Online with Cacahuate* Adults Apr. 11 at 9:00am

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner Online Adults Apr. 26 at 6:00pm

Tech Help* Adults

Apr. 12 at 1:00pm

BIPOC Book Club: Poetry Compilation* Adults

Homework & Reading Help Kids

Apr. 12 at 4:30pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner Online Adults Apr. 28 at 6:00pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner Online Adults Apr. 12 at 6:00pm

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info magazine · Metropolitan Library System · April 2022

Children's Day/ Dia De Los Niños All Ages

Apr. 27 at 6:00pm

Apr. 30 at 1:00pm

Play & Learn at Home Birth-PreK

Choctaw Library

Apr. 18 - 22

Page Turners* Adults

Apr. 3 at 2:00pm

CLC High School Equivalency Classes (HSE 1) Online Adults Apr. 19 at 3:00pm

LEGO Club Kids

Apr. 6 at 4:00pm

Teen Virtual Dungeons & Dragons Online Teens

Apr. 19 at 4:00pm

Beyond the Book: Kid's Book Club with a Twist* Kids Apr. 13 at 4:00pm

Adult Board Game Night: Zoom Edition Online* Adults Apr. 19 at 6:30pm

Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body (In-Person Event)* Adults Apr. 13 at 6:30pm

CLC High School Equivalency Classes (HSE 1) Online Adults Apr. 21 at 3:00pm

Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body Online* Adults Apr. 13 at 6:30pm

CLC High School Equivalency Classes (HSE 1) Online Adults Apr. 26 at 3:00pm

Gamefest Kids, Teens

Apr. 20 at 4:00am

Teen Virtual Dungeons & Dragons Online Teens

Novels at Night Online* Adults

Apr. 28 at 6:30pm

CLC High School Equivalency Classes (HSE 1) Online Adults Apr. 28 at 3:00pm

Del City Library The Book Drop - Teen Book Box* Teens Play & Learn at Home Birth-PreK

Apr. 26 at 4:00pm

Downtown Library Apr. 1 Apr. 4 - 8

Adult Book Boxes* Adults

Apr. 1 - 16

Poetry in 28 Words!* Teens, Adults

Apr. 1 - 16

CLC High School Equivalency Classes (HSE 1) Online Adults Apr. 5 at 3:00pm

Emotional Wellness Teens, Adults

Teen Virtual Dungeons & Dragons Online Teens

Apr. 5 at 4:00pm

Blackout Poetry Take-Home Kit* Teens, Adults

Traditional Indigenous Medicine* All Ages, Adults

Apr. 6 at 5:00pm

Music Time Online* Birth-PreK, Kids

Apr. 5 at 11:00am

CLC High School Equivalency Classes (HSE 1) Online Adults Apr. 7 at 3:00pm

Story & Song: Poetry Month Online* Birth-PreK, Kids

Apr. 5 at 11:00am

Teen Open Game Night* Teens

Art Around the World: Egypt - Cartouche* Kids, Teens, Adults

Apr. 7 at 6:30pm

Apr. 2 at 11:00am Apr. 4 - 11

Apr. 5 - 9

Understanding and Responding to Dementia-related Behavior* Adults Apr. 8 at 10:00am

Midweek Makers: Legos!* Kids

Budget Binder Take-Home Kit Adults

Traditional Indigenous Medicine* All Ages, Adults

Apr. 11 at 2:00pm

CLC High School Equivalency Classes (HSE 1) Online Adults Apr. 12 at 3:00pm

Story & Song: Play Time Online* Birth-PreK, Kids

Apr. 12 at 11:00am

Teen Virtual Dungeons & Dragons Online Teens

Midweek Makers: Science Explorers!* Kids

Apr. 9 - 16

Apr. 12 at 4:00pm

CLC High School Equivalency Classes (HSE 1) Online Adults Apr. 14 at 3:00pm

Story & Song: Earth Day Online* Birth-PreK, Kids

Apr. 6 at 2:30pm

Apr. 13 at 2:30pm Apr. 19 at 11:00am

April 2022 · Metropolitan Library System · info magazine

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Downtown Library, cont.

Chess Club* Kids

Apr. 6 at 4:30pm Apr. 6 at 4:30pm

Lunch Bunch Book Club* Adults

Apr. 19 at 12:00pm

Citizenship Classes Online* Adults

Computer Literacy Class* Adults

Apr. 20 at 11:00am

Storytime in the Park* Birth-PreK

Midweek Makers: Art Outside the Lines!* Kids

Apr. 20 at 2:30pm

Emotional Wellness Teens, Adults

Apr. 20 at 6:00pm

Take-Home Kit: Earth Day Windchimes!* Kids

Apr. 20 - 27

Apr. 7 at 10:30am

English as a Second Language Classes - Advanced Beginner (ESL 7) Online Adults Apr. 7 at 2:00pm The In-Be-TWEENS: Cartooning Class* Kids, Teens

Apr. 7 at 4:00pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Intermediate (ESL 11) Online Adults Apr. 7 at 5:00pm

Emotional Wellness Teens, Adults

Apr. 23 at 11:00am

Story & Song: Outer Space Online* Birth-PreK, Kids

Storytime in the Park* Birth-PreK

Apr. 26 at 11:00am

Computer Literacy Class* Adults

Apr. 27 at 11:00am

The Magic Tree House Book Adventures Club: Tigers at Twilight Virtual Event* Kids Apr. 11 at 4:00pm

Midweek Makers: Engineer It!* Kids

Apr. 27 at 2:30pm

Panel Discussion about Medical Cannabis Adults LEGO Block Party - In person!* Kids Storytime in the Park* Birth-PreK

English as a Second Language Classes - Advanced Beginner (ESL 7) Online Adults Apr. 12 at 2:00pm Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia* Adults

Edmond Library Apr. 2 at 10:00am Apr. 2 at 3:00pm Apr. 4 at 10:30am

Apr. 11 at 10:30am

Apr. 12 at 3:30pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Intermediate (ESL 11) Online Adults Apr. 12 at 5:00pm Mini Terrariums - In Person Event for Ages 5-12* Kids Apr. 12 at 6:30pm Citizenship Classes Online* Adults

Apr. 13 at 4:30pm

ADULT Take & Make : Decorative Jumbo Easter Egg Kit* Adults Apr. 4 - 11

Storytime in the Park* Birth-PreK

English as a Second Language Classes - Advanced Beginner (ESL 7) Online Adults Apr. 5 at 2:00pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Advanced Beginner (ESL 7) Online Adults Apr. 14 at 2:00pm

Cozy Mystery Book Club* Adults

English as a Second Language Classes - Intermediate (ESL 11) Online Adults Apr. 14 at 5:00pm

Apr. 5 at 3:00pm

Apr. 14 at 10:30am

English as a Second Language Classes - Intermediate (ESL 11) Online Adults Apr. 5 at 5:00pm

Storytime in the Park* Birth-PreK

Children Reading to Dogs* Kids

Apr. 5 at 6:30pm

MetroWrites: Edmond (Writing Group)* Adults

English as a Second Language Classes - Advanced Beginner (ESL 7) Online Adults Apr. 19 at 2:00pm

Apr. 5 at 7:00pm

14

info magazine · Metropolitan Library System · April 2022

Apr. 18 at 10:30am

English as a Second Language Classes - Intermediate (ESL 11) Online Adults Apr. 19 at 5:00pm

Children Reading to Dogs* Kids

Apr. 19 at 6:30pm

MetroWrites: Edmond (Writing Group)* Adults

Apr. 19 at 7:00pm

Chess Club* Kids

Apr. 20 at 4:30pm

Citizenship Classes Online* Adults

Apr. 20 at 4:30pm

Storytime in the Park* Birth-PreK

Apr. 21 at 10:30am

English as a Second Language Classes - Advanced Beginner (ESL 7) Online Adults Apr. 21 at 2:00pm The In-Be-TWEENS: Gamers Unplugged - IN PERSON* Kids, Teens Apr. 21 at 4:00pm English as a Second Language Classes - Intermediate (ESL 11) Online Adults Apr. 21 at 5:00pm Family Story & Hike* Birth-PreK, Kids

Apr. 23 at 9:00am

Storytime in the Park* Birth-PreK

Apr. 25 at 10:30am

The Magic Tree House Book Adventures Club: Tigers at Twilight Virtual Event* Kids Apr. 25 at 4:00pm English as a Second Language Classes - Advanced Beginner (ESL 7) Online Adults Apr. 26 at 2:00pm

Explore Space and create a Mini Galaxy Kit* Teens

Apr. 4 - 11

Jones Library Jones Book Club Adults

Apr. 21 at 10:00am

Luther Library Fidget Quilt Top* Adults

Apr. 25 at 4:00pm

Midwest City Library Advanced Tai Chi* Adults LEGO Club All Ages, Kids

Apr. 1 at 10:00am Apr. 5 at 4:30pm

Storytime in the Park!

Birth-PreK

Apr. 6 at 10:00am

Advanced Tai Chi* Adults

Apr. 8 at 10:00am

Medicare 101* Adults

Apr. 8 at 11:00am

Storytime in the Park!

Birth-PreK

Apr. 13 at 10:00am

Advanced Tai Chi* Adults

Apr. 15 at 10:00am

English as a Second Language Classes - Intermediate (ESL 11) Online Adults Apr. 26 at 5:00pm

OKC Ballet: From Page to Stage Kids

Citizenship Classes Online* Adults

Storytime in the Park!

Birth-PreK

Apr. 20 at 10:00am

Advanced Tai Chi* Adults

Apr. 22 at 10:00am

Medicare 101* Adults

Apr. 22 at 11:00am

Storytime in the Park* Birth-PreK

Apr. 27 at 4:30pm Apr. 28 at 10:30am

English as a Second Language Classes - Advanced Beginner (ESL 7) Online Adults Apr. 28 at 2:00pm English as a Second Language Classes - Intermediate (ESL 11) Online Adults Apr. 28 at 5:00pm

Harrah Library Whodunit Mystery Book Club* Adults

Apr. 4 at 1:00pm

Apr. 19 at 4:30pm

Fun With Plants! An Earth Day Celebration Kids Apr. 26 at 4:30pm Storytime in the Park!

Birth-PreK

Apr. 27 at 10:00am

Advanced Tai Chi* Adults

Apr. 29 at 10:00am

April 2022 · Metropolitan Library System · info magazine

15

Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Nicoma Park Library Yoga* Adults Community Room Teens, Adults

Apr. 1 at 10:15am Apr. 6 at 1:00pm

Apr. 13 at 10:30am

Earth Day Recycle and Upcycle Take-Home Kit (Kids Ages 5-12)* Kids Apr. 13 at 9:00am Wooden Bead Key Chains & Necklaces (Take-Home Kit)* Adults Apr. 13 - 16

Yoga* Adults

Apr. 8 at 10:15am

Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Apr. 13 at 9:30am

Community Room Teens, Adults

Apr. 13 at 1:00pm

Shelf Indulgence: YA Book Club* Teens, Adults

Apr. 14 at 6:00pm

Yoga* Adults Community Room Teens, Adults Yoga* Adults Community Room Teens, Adults Yoga* Adults

Apr. 15 at 10:15am Apr. 20 at 1:00pm Apr. 22 at 10:15am Apr. 27 at 1:00pm Apr. 29 at 10:15am

Northwest Library DIY Book Tote* Adults

Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Apr. 19 at 10:30am

Adorable Dog + Haiku = DOGKU (Kids Ages 5-12)* Kids Apr. 19 at 4:30pm Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Apr. 20 at 10:30am

Arab American Heritage Month: Moroccan Mosaic Craft TakeHome Kit* Kids Apr. 20 - 23 Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Apr. 20 at 9:30am

NW Teen Coding Club* Teens

Apr. 21 at 6:00pm

Apr. 4 at 6:30pm

Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Apr. 26 at 10:30am

Apr. 5 at 10:30am

Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Apr. 27 at 10:30am

Apr. 6 at 10:30am

Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Apr. 27 at 9:30am

Upcycled Plastic Bottle Herb Planters (Take-Home Kit)* Teens Apr. 6 - 9 Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Apr. 6 at 9:30am

SECOND SATURDAY: Mother Earth with OKC Beautiful (Kids Ages 5-12)* Kids Apr. 9 at 2:00pm Making Sense of Medicare* Adults Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Apr. 11 at 6:00pm Apr. 12 at 10:30am

Mother Earth with OKC Beautiful (Kids Ages 5-12)* Kids Apr. 12 at 4:30pm

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info magazine · Metropolitan Library System · April 2022

Ralph Ellison Library Bookish- Teen Subscription Box* Teens

Apr. 3 at 9:00am

Tai Chi for Better Balance* Adults

Apr. 5 at 2:30pm

Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body: Tips from the Latest Research presented by the Alzheimer's Association Teens, Adults Apr. 5 at 6:00pm CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 1) Online Adults Apr. 5 at 9:30am Tai Chi for Better Balance* Adults

Apr. 7 at 2:30pm

Throwback Thursday Game Days Kids, Teens

Apr. 7 at 4:00pm

Southern Oaks Library

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 1) Online Adults Apr. 7 at 9:30am

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 3) Online Adults Apr. 4 at 6:00pm

Pet Food Pantry All Ages

Apr. 8 at 11:00am

Tweens & Teens Take and Make Kit: Diamond Mobile* Teens Apr. 4 - 16

Traditional Indigenous Medicine* All Ages, Adults

Apr. 11 at 5:00pm

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 3) Online Adults Apr. 6 at 6:00pm

Tai Chi for Better Balance* Adults

Apr. 12 at 2:30pm

CLC U.S. Citizenship Classes (CIT 2) Online* Adults Apr. 7 at 6:30pm

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 1) Online Adults Apr. 12 at 9:30am

FAN FICTION FAN ART PRIZE PICKUP 2022 Kids, Teens, Adults

Tai Chi for Better Balance* Adults

Apr. 14 at 2:30pm

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 3) Online Adults Apr. 11 at 6:00pm

Throwback Thursday Game Days Kids, Teens

Apr. 14 at 4:00pm

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 3) Online Adults Apr. 13 at 6:00pm

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 1) Online Adults Apr. 14 at 9:30am

CLC U.S. Citizenship Classes (CIT 2) Online* Adults Apr. 14 at 6:30pm

Tai Chi for Better Balance* Adults

Apr. 19 at 2:30pm

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 3) Online Adults Apr. 18 at 6:00pm

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 1) Online Adults Apr. 19 at 9:30am

Tweens & Teens Take and Make Kit: Wind Chimes* Teens Apr. 18 - 30

Tai Chi for Better Balance* Adults

Apr. 21 at 2:30pm

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 3) Online Adults Apr. 20 at 6:00pm

Throwback Thursday Game Days Kids, Teens

Apr. 21 at 4:00pm

CLC U.S. Citizenship Classes (CIT 2) Online* Adults Apr. 21 at 6:30pm

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 1) Online Adults Apr. 21 at 9:30am

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 3) Online Adults Apr. 25 at 6:00pm

The Urban Poets Teens, Adults

Apr. 25 at 7:00pm

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 3) Online Adults Apr. 27 at 6:00pm

Tai Chi for Better Balance* Adults

Apr. 26 at 2:30pm

CLC U.S. Citizenship Classes (CIT 2) Online* Adults Apr. 28 at 6:30pm

Side Hustles & Passive Income* Teens, Adults

Apr. 26 at 6:30pm

Apr. 10 - 16

The Village Library

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 1) Online Adults Apr. 26 at 9:30am

Chess Club All Ages

Tai Chi for Better Balance* Adults

Apr. 28 at 2:30pm

Tai Chi* Adults

Apr. 4 at 10:00am

Throwback Thursday Game Days Kids, Teens

Apr. 28 at 4:00pm

Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Apr. 5 at 10:00am

Tai Chi* Adults

Apr. 6 at 10:00am

CLC Adult Basic Education Classes (ABE 1) Online Adults Apr. 28 at 9:30am

Apr. 1 at 4:00pm

April 2022 · Metropolitan Library System · info magazine

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The Village Library, cont.

Music with Ginger Outdoors!* Birth-PreK Chess Club All Ages Knitting Club All Ages All-Levels Yoga* Adults

Apr. 7 at 10:00am Apr. 8 at 4:00pm Apr. 9 at 10:00am Apr. 9 at 4:00pm

Tai Chi* Adults

Apr. 11 at 10:00am

Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Apr. 12 at 10:00am

Tai Chi* Adults

Apr. 25 at 10:00am

Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Apr. 26 at 10:00am

Tai Chi* Adults

Apr. 27 at 10:00am

Chess Club All Ages

Apr. 29 at 4:00pm

All-Levels Yoga* Adults

Apr. 30 at 4:00pm

Warr Acres Library Let's Learn About Ramadan - Take-Home Kit Kids

Apr. 1 - 8 Apr. 2 - 8

Full STEAM Ahead Take-Home Kit* Kids

Apr. 12

Take & Make: Spring Tree Painting!

Birth-PreK, Kids

Teen Take & Make Lit Kit* Teens

Apr. 12

Crafternoon: Stained Glass Cross Kids, Teens, Adults

Apr. 2 at 2:00pm

Early Childhood Take-Home Kit* Birth-PreK

Apr. 12 at 9:00am

Stained Glass Cross Take and Make Kit Kids, Teens, Adults

Children's Take-Home Kit* Kids

Apr. 12 at 9:15am

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 4) Online Adults Apr. 4 at 1:00pm

Apr. 13 at 10:00am

S.A.L.T. Council (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Adults Apr. 4 at 10:00am

Tai Chi* Adults

Apr. 3 - 9

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Full STEAM Ahead!* Kids

Apr. 14 at 4:00pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 4) Online Adults Apr. 6 at 1:00pm

Apr. 15 at 4:00pm

Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia* Adults

Apr. 16 at 4:00pm

Jazz Dance Class* Teens, Adults

Tai Chi* Adults

Apr. 18 at 10:00am

Poetry Workbooks Teens, Adults

Outdoor Storytime* Birth-PreK

Apr. 19 at 10:00am

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 4) Online Adults Apr. 11 at 1:00pm

Tai Chi* Adults

Apr. 20 at 10:00am

"I Survived" Science Challenge* Kids

Chess Club All Ages

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Apr. 7 at 3:30pm

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All-Levels Yoga* Adults

Apr. 9 at 12:00pm Apr. 10 - 16

Apr. 12 at 7:00pm

Teen Game Night Teens

Apr. 21 at 7:00pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 4) Online Adults Apr. 13 at 1:00pm

Chess Club All Ages

Apr. 22 at 4:00pm

"I Survived" Science Challenge* Kids

All-Levels Yoga* Adults

Apr. 23 at 4:00pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 4) Online Adults Apr. 18 at 1:00pm

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info magazine · Metropolitan Library System · April 2022

Apr. 16 at 2:00pm

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Grow Your Own Vegetable Garden - Take-Home Kit Kids Apr. 18 - 24

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 4) Online Adults Apr. 25 at 1:00pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 4) Online Adults Apr. 20 at 1:00pm

English as a Second Language Classes - Beginner (ESL 4) Online Adults Apr. 27 at 1:00pm

Book Club- The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood* Adults Apr. 23 at 11:00am

Dungeons and Dragons Game Night* Teens

LEGO Club - Flower Pots For Spring* Kids Belle Isle Reopening Ad 2.pdf 1 3/2/22

Mother Earth with OKC Beautiful* Kids

Tatreez Bookmark Workshop* Teens, Adults

1:43

PM Apr. 23 at 2:00pm

Apr. 24 at 3:00pm

Apr. 28 at 7:00pm Apr. 30 at 11:00am

*Registration required **Zoom/Virtual program only

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April 2022 · Metropolitan Library System · info magazine

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MLS LIBRARIES

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2 BELLE ISLE 5501 N. Villa, OKC, (405) 843-9601

9-9

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3 BETHANY 6700 NW 35th, Bethany, (405) 789-8363

9-9

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4 CAPITOL HILL 327 SW 27th, OKC, (405) 634-6308

9-9

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5 CHOCTAW 2525 Muzzy Street, Choctaw, (405) 390-8418

9-9

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6 DEL CITY 4330 SE 15th, Del City, (405) 672-1377

9-9

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7 DOWNTOWN 300 Park Ave., OKC, (405) 231-8650

9-9

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8 EDMOND 10 S. Boulevard, Edmond, (405) 341-9282

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9 HARRAH 1930 N. Church Avenue, Harrah, (405) 454-2001

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10 JONES 9295 Willa Way, Jones, (405) 399-5471

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11 LUTHER 310 NE 3rd, Luther, (405) 277-9967

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12 MIDWEST CITY 8143 E. Reno, MWC, (405) 732-4828

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9:30-5:30

9:30-5:30

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14 NORTHWEST 5600 NW 122nd, OKC, (405) 606-3580

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15 RALPH ELLISON 2000 NE 23rd, OKC, (405) 424-1437

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16 SOUTHERN OAKS 6900 S. Walker, OKC (405) 631-4468

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17 THE VILLAGE 10307 N. Penn. Ave., The Village, (405) 755-0710

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18 WARR ACRES 5901 NW 63rd, Warr Acres, (405) 721-2616

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9:30-5:30

9:30-5:30

9:30-5:30

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ALMONTE 2914 SW 59, OKC, (405) 606-3575

13 NICOMA PARK 2240 Overholser, Nicoma Park, (405) 769-9452

19 WRIGHT* 2101 Exchange, OKC, (405) 235-5035

*Closed from 12:30-1pm. Visit metrolibrary.org for the most up-to-date hours, curbside service hours and opening/closing information.

visit us at metrolibrary.org

March 2022