Glenpool Library History
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Library service to Glenpool began in 1962 with a bookmobile. In 1985, the community requested full-time library service from the Tulsa City-County Library and a stationary bookmobile was located on the parking lot of the Glenoak Shopping Center. Circulation statistics, the number of new customers registering for library cards and the formation of the Glenpool Friends of the Library proved the need for a permanent library location. |
The Library opened in a leased storefront of 2,148 square feet at Glenoak in December 1985 with a collection of about 8,000 volumes. There was a capacity for 12,000 volumes. Monthly circulation was about 5,000 with about 150 people visiting the library daily. A memorable moment in that location was a visit by a twelve foot python as part of the tropical theme of the summer reading program.
With the passage of a bond issue in August 1988 funds were available for building a new library. A 5,090 square foot library was designed by Braselton Dankbar Inc., constructing architects for the 1.4 acre site at 730 E. 141st Street. Ground breaking ceremonies for the new Glenpool Library were held on June 14, 1991. City and library officials, as well as many citizens were on hand for the event. The building was completed in April 1992. The grand opening ceremony was on Sunday, April 26 and the first day of operation was Monday, April 27.
The library features separate children’s and adult areas, study areas, a book capacity of 23,000, a community meeting room with an amphitheater setting which seats 75 and a catering kitchen. The exterior of the residential frame building is buff color masonry giving a limestone appearance. There is an arched entrance with columns and originally a clock which has now been replaced with a stained glass window depicting the oil industry which was the origin of Glenpool. A dark roof with two chimney structures and a band of clerestory glass blocks windows providing natural light complete the structure. The structure proved sound by weathering a tornado in 1992.
Carol Thomas was the first librarian in the leased location. She was followed by Laurie Sundborg in 1990 who became the first librarian in the new permanent location. Jim Hoffman was next, followed by Julie McClelland, Cheryl Newman and Michelle Raine. Ron Cook is presently serving as library manager.