The Oklahoma Room at the Downtown Library(17)

Jonathan Elmore
Jun 23
2 min read

Updated: Jul 10

OKLAHOMA CITY

One afternoon, I was looking for a particular book and I found it at the Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library. I always drive to the museum that has the book rather than relying on interlibrary loans. I find it much more fun to drive somewhere. I may see something along the way that I wouldn't have seen if I had just requested it.

When I got downtown, parking sucks as usual, but I found a spot around the corner and walked. I could tell from the outside that this was a big library, two stories. So, y'know, heavenly. There was a small art exhibit on display in the front. I'm glad libraries do that. I discovered a Jewish Holocaust section downstairs. It has some amazing books. The book I was looking for was downstairs, but it wasn't there. I asked about it. It was just missing. So wander upstairs.

I weaved in and out of the aisles when I saw a closed off room on the back wall. A sign above the door read "The Oklahoma Room". I need to see that. Oh...it's locked. Long story short, I finally got in. And found some incredible books that are either written by Oklahomans or about Oklahoma. As you can see in the photo below, it's a pretty big room with tons of books. I had an appointment soon so I didn't have time that day to really dig into this Special Collections room. But I returned and explored. And in a shameless self promotion, I asked if I could bring a copy of my book to be added to the collection. After some emails back and forth, I brought a copy and now it's part of the permenant collection in The Oklahoma Room. I'm pretty proud of myself for that!

If you're ever downtown and find yourself in need of a book to read, stop in the library, make your way to the second floor, and check out the special collections in The Oklahoma Room, Monday through Friday. You could possibly see a copy of my book there. You can order one from me too! Or Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Okay, end of advertisement. Ha!

300 Park Ave,

Oklahoma City

405-231-8650