MUSKOGEE – The Eastern Oklahoma Library System is pleased to announce it has received a $20,000 grant from the Carolyn Watson Rural Oklahoma Community Foundation Fund at the Oklahoma City Community Foundation.

This grant is one of 25 awarded, totaling $427,845 to support local organizations working to enhance quality of life in rural Oklahoma. Funded projects focus on Arts, Culture and History, Economic Development, Health and Safety, and Libraries and Literacy.

The grant will support a project to expand adult literacy services to five rural libraries: Stilwell Public Library, Hulbert Community Library, Jim Lucas Checotah Public Library, Eufaula Memorial Library, and John F. Henderson Public Library in Westville.

Courses that will be available include, but are not limited to, GED test preparation, adult basic education, and computer literacy for adults over age 60.

“We are so delighted to receive this grant,” said EOLS Executive Director Kathy Seibold. “Our literacy programs in Muskogee and Tahlequah have seen hundreds, if not thousands, of success stories over the years—and those programs continue to excel. We are excited to be able to offer those outstanding courses and services at more libraries soon.”

To learn more about the Carolyn Watson Ru-ral Oklahoma Community Foundation Fund grant program visit occf. org/rural.

Visit eols.org/literacy- programs/ for more information about literacy courses available at EOLS libraries and future updates on expanded programming.

About the Carolyn Watson Rural Oklahoma Community Foundation

The Carolyn Watson Rural Oklahoma Community Foundation was established in 1995 by the late Carolyn Watson, CEO and chairman of Shamrock Bank, N.A. Since its establishment, the Foundation has granted more than $4 million to schools, charitable organizations, and local government agencies working to improve the quality of life in rural Oklahoma. Grants are administered by the Oklahoma City Community Foundation. For more information visit occf. org/rural.

About the Oklahoma City Community Foundation Founded in 1969, the Oklahoma City Community Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) public charity that works with individuals, families, and organizations to benefit our community now and in the future. Together, we strive to make the greatest impact in our community. To join us or learn more about our work to maximize charitable funds, visit occf.org.