By Zoe Elrod, Internal Communications Coordinator

Discover the mesmerizing world of insects at the Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library with "Small Wonders: Insects in Focus." The stunning display will be showcased in the library's first floor atrium from Jan. 28 through March 16. The exhibition brings the hidden beauty of insects into striking clarity through the work of Tulsa artist Bob Sober.    

The traveling exhibition, organized by ExhibitsUSA, features large-scale macro photographs that present insects as works of art, highlighting their beauty and importance in our ecosystem.

Insects have existed for more than 350 million years and inhabit nearly every corner of daily life, quietly sustaining ecosystems. Scientists have documented hundreds of thousands of species, and some estimate as many as 30 million may exist worldwide, with thousands living right in our own backyards. What “Small Wonders” offers is a new way of seeing these familiar creatures. 

Using advanced photographic techniques, Sober creates human-scale images assembled from hundreds of photos, revealing extraordinary detail and color. The result blends scientific precision with artistic beauty, showcasing vivid hues, iridescent textures, and intricate structures that redefine how we see insects.

On display at Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library, the exhibition invites visitors to slow down and look more closely, not only at the photographs, but at the living world beyond the doors.

There will also be an opening party celebrating this exhibit Jan. 31 at 10 a.m. on the fourth floor of the Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library with a chance to interact with the exhibit and enjoy face painting, crafts, a live insect petting zoo and treats. 

Programs Inspired by “Small Wonders: Insects in Focus” 

To complement the exhibition, library staff have curated a series of hands-on programs and several take-home kits that invite visitors to explore the fascinating world of insects up close.

• Not So Creepy Crawlies: Partnering with the OKC Zoo, this program highlights some of the hardest-working insects in our ecosystems. Learn how decomposing insects break down plant matter, animal remains, and waste, keeping our environment healthy. Guests will also meet an animal ambassador or two.
  • Choctaw Library, Feb. 4, 4 p.m.
  • Southern Oaks Library, Feb. 14, 2 p.m.
  • Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library, Feb. 21, 10 a.m.
  • The Village Library, March 7, 1 p.m.
• Bug Embroidery Workshop: Join us for a hands-on embroidery workshop and create your own bug-inspired art while learning basic stitches. Perfect for tweens and teens who love butterflies, beetles and more.
  • Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library, Jan. 27, 6 p.m. and Feb. 7, 1 p.m.
• Bug Buffet: From chocolate-covered grasshoppers to barbeque crickets, you’re sure to have a daringly delicious time. 
  • Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library, Feb. 14, 1 p.m.
• Insect Adventure: Meet Oklahoma’s only live bug petting zoo and explore more than 25 species of living arthropods with a professional entomologist as your guide. Hold an emperor scorpion, pet a walking stick or even race termites. 
  • Edmond Library, Feb. 14 (three sessions: Noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.)
  • Belle Isle Library, Feb. 24 (three sessions: 4 p.m., 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.)
• Tiny Love: Smartphone Macro Photography Workshop: Discover a world of beauty hiding in plain sight during this hands-on workshop for teens and adults. Learn how to optimize your smartphone camera, master macro techniques, and practice photographing preserved insects from UCO’s Natural History Museum. Participants will leave with new skills and a fresh appreciation for nature’s smallest details. 
  • Edmond Library, Feb. 21, 2 p.m.
• Canvas Creation: Bug Inspiration: This creative program invites participants to design, paint or collage their own insect-inspired artwork, drawing from the exhibit’s vivid colors and patterns.
  • Southern Oaks Library, Feb. 28, 2 p.m.
• Bug Safari: Find all the bugs, make a bug hotel, and explore creepy, crawly sensory bins.
  • Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library, Feb. 28, 1 p.m.
• Forensic Entomology with Dr. Heather Ketchum: Learn how insect activity helps scientists determine time of death and supports criminal and civil investigations. Dr. Ketchum, professor at the OU School of Biological Sciences and director of the OU Biological Station, leads this adult-focused presentation, though all curious minds are welcome.
  • Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library, March 7, 2 p.m.