(PCM+) Ponca City Library: A Reflection of our Community

Story by Chelsea McConnell / Staff Writer

The following article appeared in the print issue of Ponca City Monthly magazine, which includes hyperlocal stories about Ponca City. Get full access to all online articles, videos, and content by becoming a paid subscriber. We offer free and paid subscription plans. Find rack locations to pick up your free print copy here, or subscribe here to get online access plus exclusive content.

In 1904, Ponca City had a population of 2,000 and Oklahoma had yet to achieve statehood. A pioneering group of women, members of the Twentieth Century Club, spearheaded a book exchange for their group. The women were given use of the back room of an insurance office to house their books. Soon, interest grew in the book exchange with citizens outside of the Club wanting to borrow books. This marked the auspicious beginnings of our local library.

The exchange soon outgrew that back office and the women of the Twentieth Century Club knew that more space was necessary. They raised $700 to buy lots at 5th & Grand for a library to be built. Once the lots were purchased, they were given to the City. The Club then wrote to the Carnegie Library Fund requesting a grant to build a library and were given $6500 for the project. The first library was completed in 1910 and stayed precisely on budget.