21 Aug Warner, Haskell, Eufaula Facilities Projects Advance Thanks to Cities, Donors

August 15, 2024

Since launching a facilities improvement initiative in June 2024, the Eastern Oklahoma Library System (EOLS) has achieved progress in three library projects. 

The Eufaula Memorial Library closed its doors on June 24 due to mold issues and has seen significant progress. The City of Eufaula has contributed $42,083 to remediate mold and eliminate leaks. The library received $10,000 from Eufaula Friends of the Library and EOLS Trustees, $7,500 from Arvest Bank, and $1,000 from Farmer’s State Bank. The library also sent a $30,000 request to a local foundation to help reach the final goal.

Warner Public Library was closed on April 5 for mold issues. The progress toward reopening includes $41,000 from the Town of Warner to repair the roof and windows and a $45,000 commitment from EOLS Trustees toward interior improvements. Library staff are fundraising in the local community to secure the additional $15,000 needed to complete the project.

“We are deeply grateful for the community’s unwavering support,” EOLS Executive Director Kathy Seibold. “We couldn’t reopen without it.”

Rieger Memorial Library in Haskell remains open but will receive interior and exterior updates. The City of Haskell has dedicated funding and its maintenance team to assist with repairs. The Friends of the Library have pledged to raise $5,350 in in-kind donations for lawn beautification improvements, and the EOLSTrustees designated $30,000 for the interior work. In addition, the library is seeking $50,000 from a business foundation and $15,000 in local donations. 

“It is an honor to work with such dedicated supporters who love the library as much as we do,” Seibold said. “Together, anything is possible.”

###

The Eastern Oklahoma Library System (EOLS) is a multi-county organization providing public library service through fifteen libraries in northeastern Oklahoma whose mission is to empower people by creating opportunities that enrich their lives with information, activities, and services.

For more information, please contact:

Wendy Burton
Marketing Manager
918-683-2846 ext. 234
wburton@eols.org