The story of the Shattuck Public Library begins with vision, determination, and community spirit. In June of 1963, the women of the Shattuck Sorosis Club reached out to the Oklahoma Department of Libraries with a dream: to bring a library to Shattuck.
That dream quickly grew into action. Volunteers from across the community contributed in every way possible—donating books, lumber, labor, and other materials to make the idea a reality. At first, the library was known as the Shattuck Sorosis Library, honoring the club that had sparked its beginning. Then, in July 1964, Mrs. W.C. Hopson formally requested that the name be changed to the Shattuck Library, reflecting the broader community it was meant to serve.
A major milestone came in 1965, when the Stuart family deeded the former Shattuck National Bank building to the City of Shattuck for library use. After a dedicated cleanup, installation of shelves, and the careful moving of books, the building was transformed into a true home for learning and connection.
By 1976, the Shattuck Public Library was fully established. On March 15 of that year, the library became eligible for state funding—a moment that secured its future and ensured that the dream of those determined volunteers would continue to grow for generations to come.
Significant changes and improvements continued over the years. Notably, a notably large mural painted by three local residents, Jean Manske, Noma Sprague and Ruth Ann Evans was unveiled in 1981. The mural depicts the history of Shattuck and includes several pioneers who contributed to the development of the community.
The Library has had continued major renovations to the interior of the building beginning in 2006. Renovations were completed by the City of Shattuck in 2007. The Library also expanded into the building next door with its grand opening in the Spring of 2018.
The Library continues to move forward with a focus on growth, accessibility, and connection. New technologies have been introduced to increase engagement and ensure resources are relevant in today’s digital world. At the same time, the Library has become a safe and welcoming space where everyone belongs. More than a place for only books, it now serves as a true community hub—a gathering place where neighbors meet, ideas are shared, and meaningful connections are built.
Every thriving library has a strong network of support behind it, and for many, that support comes from the Friends of the Library. Across the country, Friends groups are volunteer-driven charities committed to helping their libraries grow, evolve, and better serve their communities.
Friends of the Library organizations are known for their tireless efforts to enhance library services and expand opportunities for patrons. Common activities include:
Fundraising – Hosting book sales, silent auctions, and community events to generate funds that support programs, collections, and special projects.
Advocacy – Speaking on behalf of the library at community meetings, public forums, and with local government to ensure continued investment in library services.
Volunteer Support – Providing hands-on assistance at library events, programs, and day-to-day operations.
Program Sponsorship – Helping to fund or organize cultural events, guest speakers, summer reading initiatives, children’s activities, and more.
Community Outreach – Promoting library services, spreading awareness about resources, and encouraging more people to use and value their local library.
Special Projects – Contributing to improvements like new furniture, technology upgrades, beautification of library spaces, and other initiatives that might not be possible through the regular budget.
The Friends of the Shattuck Library (FoSL) embody the very best of what these organizations represent. Their dedication ensures that our library continues to be not just a place to borrow books, but a welcoming space for learning, connection, and growth.
The Friends’ efforts have supported programming for all ages, provided resources that enrich daily library experiences, and helped maintain an atmosphere where every community member feels at home. Their work reminds us that a library is more than shelves and services—it is the people behind it who bring it to life!
The Friends of the Library are a reflection of what this community values most: education, connection, and opportunity for everyone. Together, they are ensuring that the library continues to move forward—not just as a building, but as a hub of community life.
What makes our library truly special is the community itself. The generosity, involvement, and passion of the people who live here are what allow the Friends to succeed in their mission. Every book donated, every volunteer hour given, and every dollar raised directly strengthens the foundation of this library.
Shattuck was incorporated in 1906, the year before statehood.
This town site was established in 1887 and named Shattuck after George Otis Shattuck, a director of the Santa Fe Railroad. A post office was established on November 17, 1893. The first citizen of the Shattuck area was George Bush, who moved here with his family in 1887 to work as a pumper on the newly completed Santa Fe Railroad.
—Excerpt cited from "A Pioneer History of Shattuck"
Walking trail
Municipal Park
Tennis/basketball courts
Senior Citizens Center
101 South Main Street
P.O. Box 129
Shattuck, OK 73858
Library Director: Bryan J Dyer
Phone # 580-938-5104
Fax # 580-938-5013
Email us at library@shattuckok.gov
https://www.facebook.com/shattuckpubliclibrary
New year’s Day –
Wednesday January 1st
President’s Day –
Monday February 17th
Good Friday –
Friday April 18th
Memorial Day –
Monday May 26th
Independence Day –
Friday July 4th
Labor Day –
Monday September 1st.
Columbus Day –
Monday October 13th
Veterans Day –
Thursday November 11th
Thanksgiving –
Thursday & Friday November 27th & 28th
Christmas –
Thursday & Friday December 25th & 26th