Mission & History

Vision, Values, and Priorities (adopted August 2025)

We empower and connect our diverse communities by providing equitable access to knowledge, technology, and spaces to learn, grow, and connect.

We believe in:

Outstanding Service. We provide outstanding service by listening to our communities, removing barriers, and continuously improving how we meet their needs - wherever and however they connect with us.
Access for All. Everyone deserves free and equitable access to ideas, resources, and technology, without judgement.
Representation. We celebrate the diversity of our world and welcome the open exchange of differing ideas and points of view. We are both a mirror in which everyone can see themselves and a window into others' experiences.
Integrity and Stewardship. We are responsible, transparent stewards of the public trust, ensuring that all resources deliver value to the people we serve.
Community Collaboration. We build partnerships that extend our impact, strengthen community ties, and enhance public life.
Staff Empowerment. We support a healthy, inclusive staff culture where employees feel valued, have opportunities to grow, and are prepared to lead.

Provide Exceptional Collections. We will offer materials that reflect community demand and the diversity of our world - in good condition, easy to access, and available in a variety of traditional and emerging formats with minimal wait times.
Preserve and Promote Local History. We will conserve and share Oklahoma's cultural heritage by collecting, digitizing, and promoting primary source materials. We will engage the public through educational programs, exhibitions, and community storytelling.
Celebrate Reading and the Arts. We will inspire a love of reading and creativity through programs, exhibits, author events, and partnerships that make literature and the arts engaging and accessible to all.

Ensure Equitable Access. We will remove barriers to access by offering services through staffed and unstaffed buildings, mobile and pop-up libraries, remote services, and targeted outreach - especially to those affected by poverty, language barriers, and limited transportation.
Advance Digital Library. We will be the community's go-to resource for building digital skills and accessing essential technology, ensuring all residents can fully participate in today's digital world.
Support Workforce and Civic Engagement. We will empower residents to succeed in work and life by offering job-seeking resources, career development tools, small business support, and access to civic learning and dialogue. We will partner with schools, municipalities, and community groups to help residents engage with local issues and shape their future.

Create Destinations. We will invest in beautiful, modern spaces that support digital access, job-seeking, learning, creativity, and community connection. Libraries will be hubs for gathering, exploration, and individual growth.
Invest in Our People. We will build a thriving staff culture by offering professional development, clear career pathways, mentorship, and succession planning. We will foster collaboration and belonging throughout our organization.