Investing in the Future of Holdenville

Grace Pickens Public Library is proud to bring new resources, technology, educational opportunities, accessibility improvements, and community programs to Holdenville and Hughes County through grants, partnerships, and community support.

Since 2025, the library has successfully secured more than $53,012.31 in documented monetary grants and awards, in addition to equipment, professional-development opportunities, national program participation, and other non-cash investments.

These awards are helping us build a stronger library for children, families, seniors, students, educators, and the entire Holdenville community.

2026 Grants & Awards

$20,000 — Libraries Transforming Communities

American Library Association

This grant is supporting important accessibility improvements at the library, including:

• A handicapped-accessible push-button entrance door

• A new front sidewalk connecting the alley to Oak Street

• Built-in curb stops to improve accessibility and safety

These improvements are helping make the library safer and more welcoming for patrons with disabilities and mobility challenges.

$10,000 — Technology Grant

Oklahoma Department of Libraries & Institute of Museum and Library Services

The library received funding for three AWE Children's Learning Computers, expanding access to educational technology and interactive learning opportunities for young patrons.

$3,000 — FFY26 Early Literacy & School Readiness Grant

Oklahoma Department of Libraries / Institute of Museum and Library Services

Grace Pickens Public Library was selected for the FFY26 Early Literacy and School Readiness Grant.

The award includes:

• $2,000 for early literacy materials

• $1,000 for books

The grant will support programs and resources for children ages 0–4 and their caregivers, helping families develop early literacy skills and practices that can continue at home.

$2,678.85 — Holdenville Mothers Club

Holdenville Mothers Club

Local community support helped us improve our children's area with:

• Building-block table

• Happy Caterpillar seating

• Chess/checker table and chairs

• Chess set

• Checkers set

These additions create a more engaging space where children can play, learn, create, and interact with one another.

$2,500 — America 250: “Voices of Hughes County”

Oklahoma Department of Libraries & Institute of Museum and Library Services

Through this grant, the library received equipment to create three oral history kits for the Voices of Hughes County project.

The equipment will allow the library to record and preserve the stories, memories, experiences, and history of Hughes County residents for future generations.

This project creates a lasting community resource that can continue to grow for years to come.

$2,000 — Rural Technology Fund Grant

Rural Technology Fund

The library received funding for technology and STEM equipment, including:

• Bambu 3D printer

• Four Raspberry Pi computers

• Robotics equipment

• 3D-printing supplies

• MicroSD cards and power supplies

• HDMI cables

• Protective cases

• Storage and organization equipment

These resources will provide opportunities for children, teens, families, and community members to explore coding, robotics, 3D printing, technology, and hands-on STEM learning.

$1,333.46 — Oklahoma Library Association Conference Grant

Oklahoma Department of Libraries & Institute of Museum and Library Services

This funding supported professional development and participation in the Oklahoma Library Association Conference.

The experience allows library staff to bring new ideas, resources, and best practices back to the Holdenville community.

$1,000 — Library Convening Stipend

Institute of Museum and Library Services

The stipend helped support Holdenville's Fourth of July community celebration, including:

• Live band entertainment

• Free watermelon

• American stick flags for children and families

The funding helped the library create a welcoming community gathering and celebration.

$500 — NASA Science LIVE Mini-Grant

SciStarter / NASA Science LIVE

Grace Pickens Public Library was selected to host a Do NASA Science LIVE event on November 19, 2026.

The event will give community members an opportunity to participate in hands-on citizen science, learn about NASA research, connect with scientists, and contribute to real scientific research.

The library anticipates welcoming approximately 26–50 participants.

Additional Community Resources & Opportunities

Not every investment in the library comes through a traditional grant. Grace Pickens Public Library is also grateful to participate in programs and receive resources through state and federal agencies, national organizations, and community partners.

Moments That Made Us

Oklahoma Department of Libraries & Institute of Museum and Library Services

Grace Pickens Public Library is participating in Moments That Made Us, an exhibition celebrating and commemorating America's 250th anniversary. The exhibition provides an opportunity to highlight the people, places, experiences, and history that have helped shape Holdenville, Hughes County, and our nation.

Health Pod

Oklahoma Broadband Office

The library is participating in the Health Pod initiative, bringing additional technology-based resources and connectivity services to our rural community.

Dell Pro 24 All-in-One Computer

Oklahoma Broadband Office

The library received a Dell Pro 24 All-in-One Computer through federally funded broadband initiatives. The computer expands public access to technology for education, employment, communication, research, digital services, and everyday technology needs.

Forestry Discovery Pack — Invasive Animals Backpack

Oklahoma Department of Libraries & Oklahoma Forestry Services

A hands-on educational resource available for families to check out and explore at home. The backpack includes activities and materials focused on forests and trees, invasive species, the Emerald Ash Borer, environmental education, and hands-on discovery.

Special Olympics Oklahoma Young Athletes Backpacks

Special Olympics Oklahoma — Young Athletes®

The library offers Young Athletes Backpacks for families to check out. The backpacks provide activities designed to help children ages 2–7 develop motor skills, confidence, coordination, movement skills, and social connections.

Each backpack includes the Young Athletes Activity Guide, We're All Wonders by R.J. Palacio, Poly Dots, scarves, and additional activities.

Check out. Play. Grow!

Library Convening 250: Telling America's Story

Institute of Museum and Library Services

The library was invited to participate in this national gathering focused on empowering librarians from small and rural communities. The convening focused on preserving local history, strengthening civic engagement, sharing community stories, and highlighting the role of libraries in telling America's story.

Participation was provided with all expenses paid.

Thank You to Our Funders & Partners

Grace Pickens Public Library is grateful to the organizations, agencies, foundations, and community partners whose support makes these programs, resources, and improvements possible.

Every investment helps us provide more opportunities for the children, families, and residents of Holdenville and Hughes County.

That keeps your main grant list easy to read, while still giving you a place at the bottom to showcase everything else you've received.