A TOWN TREASURE HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT Tucked behind the Sayre City Hall, the Sayre Public Library is one of western Oklahoma’s best-kept secrets. With thousands of books, community events, free programs, and even high-speed Wi-Fi, it’s a hidden gem that’s open to everyone. And thanks to a dedicated group known as the Friends of the Sayre Public Library, the shelves stay stocked, the stories keep coming, and the doors stay open to more than just readers.
A FEW GOOD FRIENDS
“The Friends of the Library is a nonprofit organization that helps the library with anything they need,” said Dawnia Nalley, president of the group. “We help with some reading programs, any materials the library needs that aren’t necessarily in the city’s budget.”
FUNDRAISERS WITH HEART (AND SOMETIMES DODGEBALLS) From the now-beloved Daddy-Daughter Dance to dinner theater and dodgeball showdowns, the Friends have made fundraising a community affair. “We had 28 dads show up this year. That’s a big increase. I think Elk City’s event just got too big—ours is more intimate,” Nalley explained. There was also a momson dodgeball night, where a few brave souls showed up to legally pelt their kids with rubber balls—but participation was light.
SUMMER READS AND COLORFUL WORLDS Another major program funded by the Friends is the library’s summer reading series. This year’s theme is ‘Color Your World,’ bringing art, music, and hands-on crafts to kids ages 4–9 throughout June. Teens can also get involved by volunteering to help younger children.
BIG IMPACT FOR LITTLE READERS One of the most impactful initiatives supported by the Friends is the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which mails free books every month to children from birth to age five. “Just in the 73662 zip code, we have around 700 kids enrolled,” Nalley said. That’s a lot of little readers starting strong—and it’s entirely free to families.
THE POWER OF FREE
Nearly everything the library offers is free: Wi-Fi, audiobooks, puzzles, crafts, educational programs, and storytime events. There’s even a LEGO club, run by local volunteers, and a monthly visit from a costumed ranger from the Washita Battlefield who leads history-based crafts and stories.
TRADE THE JUMPSUIT FOR A LIBRARY CARD.
Sometimes life throws us a curveball—or a minor legal hiccup. If you happen to owe a few community service hours (at the gentle suggestion of someone in a black robe), consider swapping that roadside jumpsuit for a cool seat in the Sayre Public Library. Volunteers can shelve books, help with events, or just lend a hand. It’s a whole lot cooler than picking up trash on the highway—literally.
YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE RICH TO BE A READER In a time when grocery bills are up and paychecks are stretched, maybe donating cash isn’t on the table right now. But you can still make a difference. “We always need people to help with reading to the kids or helping with crafts,” Nalley said. If your budget’s more focused on eggs than philanthropy, donating your time is just as valuable.
ALL ARE WELCOME
Library hours are Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday from noon to 7 p.m., and Saturday mornings. Computers and Wi-Fi are available to the public all day during open hours—no library card required. There’s even outdoor access to Wi-Fi from the benches, perfect for uploading a file, finishing homework, or just browsing without data fees.
A COMMUNITY SPACE FOR ALL AGES Whether you’re five or ninety-five, Sayre Public Library has something to offer. And with a little help from a few more friends, its future looks even brighter. To volunteer, donate, or learn more, visit their Facebook page or call 580-928-2641.
