Statewide Reading & Discussion Project
Oklahoma Reads Oklahoma invited Oklahomans to read together, talk together, and reflect on books that explore the Oklahoma experience as part of the state’s 2007 centennial celebration.
From 2004 through 2007, communities considered a short list—the annual “Six-Pack”—then voted for a single title to read statewide. Libraries, schools, reading groups, and cultural organizations hosted discussions and events.
How the Program Worked
1) Meet the Finalists
Librarians and partners curated six Oklahoma-themed titles each year—the Six-Pack.
2) Cast Your Vote
Readers statewide chose one book for a common read—uniting conversations across towns and generations.
3) Read & Discuss
Libraries and groups hosted discussions, author events, and community programs using free materials.
Annual Statewide Selections
2004
The Honk and Holler Opening Soon by Billie Letts
2005
Walking the Choctaw Road: Stories from Red People Memory by Tim Tingle
2006
The Saints and Sinners of Okay County by Dayna Dunbar
2007
Fire in Beulah
About the “Six-Pack”
The Six-Pack brought together six compelling books each year—fiction and nonfiction—that illuminate Oklahoma’s past and present. Communities used the finalists to spark local conversations even before the statewide winner was announced.
Themes
Statehood, culture, resilience, Indigenous perspectives, rural and urban life, and civic identity.
Audience
Adults and older teens; many groups paired discussions with film nights, exhibits, or oral-history projects.
Materials
Each finalist had a short overview, author bio, and discussion prompts in our program packets.
FAQ — Quick Answers
Who organized it?
Led by the Oklahoma Department of Libraries with statewide partners as an official Oklahoma Centennial Project.
How did libraries participate?
By hosting discussions, promoting the vote, and using downloadable guides, posters, and press templates.
Can I still use the materials?
Yes. Program pages and PDFs remain valuable for local reading groups and classrooms.
Where do I start?
Sponsors & Partners
Oklahoma Reads Oklahoma was made possible through statewide collaboration and generous support.
Meet the sponsors and partnering organizations.
Contact
© Oklahoma Department of Libraries 2003–2007
Accessibility
We strive to keep materials readable and usable. If you need an alternative format, please contact the program inbox above.