Jenks Library

History:

When stores along Main Street began stocking antiques and collectibles, Jenks Library followed suit by starting a special book collection. Head librarian, Ann Hunt sought and obtained a grant to begin a collection of books on antiques. Every year since then, money has been budgeted to buy more books for the collection. Now more than 400 of the library's 20,000+ holdings are on antiques. The collection includes books on just about anything people collect and resell. Toys, dolls, furniture, dishes, rocking horses, paperweights, Disney collectibles and jewelry are among the items featured in the books. People come from all over the library system to find information from this collection. In fact, one church group drove all the way from Okmulgee looking for information on the church's dishes.

In addition to this specialized collection, the Jenks Library has a well-rounded collection that reflects the interests and needs of the Jenks community. Jenks has an active Garden Club so a large collection of gardening books is available to meet the high demand. Books on tape and videos for children are also available. Six Internet computers are in constant use and have expanded the library's ability to provide more information for our customers.

Recently, the Jenks Community has opened the Oklahoma Aquarium and is planning on opening a Boardwalk featuring restaurants, entertainment, and a hotel. The future is looking exciting for the Jenks community and the Jenks Public Library. A 2003 renovation will result in a rearrangement of stacks, new furniture and color scheme and a new entrance. The Jenks Library has served Jenks and the surrounding communities for over 40 years and will continue to be a vital source of information and culture in the future.