The Most Iconic Libraries in Oklahoma

Oklahoma got its first library at the turn of the 20th century. By the time it obtained statehood in 1907, that number had grown to 17 publicly-accessible libraries, most of them begun by local women’s clubs. Today's libraries may offer more modern items and services, but some have retained their historic roots and become iconic Oklahoma landmarks.

From classic Carnegie libraries to Gothic mansions decked with clocktowers, these beautiful places of education and learning are a must for history-lovers and literary fans. Discover the secrets of the archives, uncover local stories in specially curated collections, or simply wander the halls and pick out your next read. Read on to discover Oklahoma’s most iconic libraries.

Bizzell Memorial Library, Norman

The University of Oklahoma’s Bizzell Memorial Library is a designated National Historic Landmark with gorgeous architecture and an interesting history. Built in 1929, the Collegiate Gothic building became a flashpoint of the South’s desegregation movement when a black student challenged a ruling that prevented him from sitting with white students in the library and other university facilities. The case, McLaurin v. Oklahoma State Regents, was heard by the Supreme Court in 1950 and was awarded in George McLaurin’s favor, giving a huge boost to the equality movement. The library, which is named for the University’s fifth president William Bennett Bizzell, is open to the public and located in the centre of campus. It houses four special collections and is hard to miss, thanks to its eye-catching 75ft clock tower.

Just northwest of the library, on W. Boyd Street, you’ll find another striking attraction, the Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art. Housing permanent exhibits and rotating galleries, the museum showcases art from around the world including pottery, painting, and photography. After a full day of art, history, and culture, grab a snack at a historic Norman eatery, the Library Bar and Grill. A staple of college and town life for over 30 years, the restaurant has an outdoor patio, dining area, and bar.

Carnegie Library, El Reno

One of Oklahoma's 24 Carnegie Libraries, the Carnegie Library in El Reno opened in 1905. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the oldest continuously operating Carnegie library in the state. The library hasn't changed much since it was first constructed, retaining the iconic columns and two story portico of its classical style. Offering children's programs, community classes, and workshops, the library is a central hub for community activities in the heart of downtown.

You can take a tour of the historic downtown with the El Reno Heritage Express Trolley, the only rail-based trolley in Oklahoma. A restored 1924 motor car, the trolley runs through spring and summer, offering a narrated tour of El Reno's heritage sights. You can discover more El Reno history while enjoying a scenic wander around the Canadian County Historical Society Museum Complex. The property includes the Rock Island Depot, built in 1907, the Menoville Mennonite Church, and Hotel El Reno, built in 1892.

Edmon Low Library, Stillwater

The Edmon Low Library of Oklahoma State University is an elegant, Georgian-style institution built in the 1950s. It was constructed at the behest of university president Henry Bennett who took up his presidency in 1928 and wanted an impressive library as the centrepiece of the expanding campus. Named after Library Director Edmon Low, the building was in development for nearly 30 years before finally opening its doors in 1953. A member of the Association for Research Libraries, the Edmon Low Library is home to the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program.

A short walk from the library, heading northeast through campus, you’ll find one of Stillwater’s most unusual attractions, the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. Browse wrestling memorabilia, enjoy interactive exhibits, and learn about the wrestlers who popularised the sport at this entertaining and educational museum. Just south of downtown is the Stillwater History Museum, where you can learn more about local history in a former church constructed in 1928. The museum includes exhibits on notable townspeople, local legends, music and entertainment, as well as a gift shop. Once you’ve finished exploring, walk over to Main Street and call into gelato shop, Blue Spruce, to choose from a wide range of gelato and sorbets or fuel up with a craft coffee.

Carnegie Library, Perry

The small town of Perry’s first library was a single reading room in a building on the town square. Following a years-long effort by the women of the community, the town was awarded a Carnegie grant in 1907 and construction of a new library began. While many Carnegie libraries have been repurposed or altered, Perry’s underwent a major renovation in 1990 but has faithfully kept to its original design. The library is a thriving community hub offering services such as book lending, movies, eBooks, and computer use. It also has a conference room available for meetings. Events held at the library include kids storytime, art workshops, and ‘Theatre Thursdays’ which screen new releases.

Aside from a Carnegie library, Perry is also home to the Heritage Center and Ditch Witch Museum of Perry, housed in an early 20th century manufacturing building. The museum traces the history of German immigrant Carl Malzahn, who established the town’s blacksmith shop in 1902. As the shop was handed down through the family for generations it became a leading contributor to Perry’s economy throughout the 1900s. If you still have time in town, take a wander through Perry Wrestling Monument Park, which celebrates Perry’s long history with the sport. The Perry High School Maroons have won more state wrestling titles than any other team in the country, earning them a place in the record books.

Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library, Oklahoma City

Named for a former city mayor, the Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library in Oklahoma City is iconic not because it’s a traditional, historic building. In fact, it’s just the opposite. This very modern four-storey library was built in 2004 and has a high-tech frontage with white metal columns and glass panels. The first two floors of the building operate as a traditional library while the third floor houses city offices and the fourth contains an event space and classrooms. Special collections housed at the library include the Genealogy Collection, the Oklahoma Collection, and the Holocaust Collection. The latter is dedicated to Holocaust survivor Henia Ring Schiff and includes over 1,200 books, audiobooks, and videos of historical research and survivor accounts.

The library is located in the arts district of downtown Oklahoma City, putting it within walking distance of several top attractions. These include the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, which welcomes over 125,000 visitors each year to see its eclectic collection of art from around the world, and the Myriad Botanical Gardens, a beautiful 15-acre oasis in the heart of the city. The gardens include a Conservatory, Children’s Garden, a carousel, a gift shop, and scenic walkways to explore the lush foliage.

Oklahoma Libraries Have a Story to Tell

A visit to the library might not be everyone’s idea of a good vacation activity, but these iconic buildings in the Sooner State will turn everyone in the family into a book nerd. Rich in history, Oklahoma’s libraries tell the story of the state, its founders, its people, and the communities that continue to nurture its spirit of learning and independence. Whether you’re just passing through and have only an hour to spare or you’re taking a longer break, make time to visit one of these iconic libraries and see a side of Oklahoma most tourists miss.