There has never been a better reminder that libraries are places of discovery than this summer at the McAlester Public Library!

Our "Unearth a Story" Summer Reading Program has been one of our biggest and most exciting summers yet. We transformed the temporary library space into a place of exploration, imagination, and discovery. Young adventurers became junior paleontologists during our Paleontology Training Camp, carefully digging for fossils and learning about the prehistoric world. We also welcomed a Dino Ranger and his incredible life-sized T. rex for a Jurassic adventure that had children and adults alike smiling from ear to ear.

While those special events created unforgettable memories, what has meant the most to us wasn't just the dinosaurs or the fossils, it was seeing children and families walk through our doors every single day. They came to check out books, participate in programs, ask questions, make new friends, and discover something new. That's what libraries are all about.

Although we've been operating from our temporary location during renovations, our mission has never changed. The library continues to be a place where people can learn, create, connect, and belong. Every library card used, every book checked out, and every family who joins us for a program is a reminder that a library is much more than a building, it's a community.

That said, we are counting down the days until we can welcome everyone back home.

This October, the McAlester Public Library is expected to open the doors to its beautifully renovated main location at 401 N 2nd Street. The transformed library has been designed with the community in mind, creating spaces that will better serve residents of all ages for years to come.

One of the most exciting additions is the expansion of meeting spaces. Our temporary location has allowed us to offer only one meeting room, but the new library will feature 10 community meeting and study rooms available for organizations, businesses, homeschool groups, clubs, tutoring sessions, community events and more all free to reserve with a library card. These spaces will make the library an even greater gathering place for McAlester.

Visitors will also enjoy updated collections, modern technology, expanded programming spaces, comfortable reading areas, improved accessibility, and dedicated spaces for children, teens, and adults. The renovated library has been designed to encourage lifelong learning, collaboration, and creativity while preserving the welcoming atmosphere our patrons have always loved.

As we look toward reopening, we're also looking toward the future. We'll continue offering favorite programs like Wiggle Worms story time, Weird Science, Builder’s Club, Sewing Club, Poetry Club, Brush Hour, book clubs, and so much more! We also look forward to expanding our partnerships with local organizations, educators, artists, and businesses to bring even more opportunities to Pittsburg County.

This summer has reminded us that libraries change lives every day. Whether a child discovers a love of reading, a family attends their first story time, or someone finds the information they need to reach a new goal, those moments truly matter.

Thank you to everyone who has supported us throughout construction, donated, attended our programs, checked out books, volunteered, and cheered us on. Your patience and enthusiasm have made this transition possible.

We can't wait to welcome you into your new McAlester Public Library this October. Until then, keep reading, keep exploring, and keep discovering your next great story. We'll see you at the library!