Contact Information
2000 NE 23rd Street
Oklahoma City, OK
73111
Phone: (405) 424-1437
About Ralph Ellison Library
The Ralph Ellison Library opened in its current location in 1975. Named in honor of Oklahoma City native and acclaimed author Ralph Ellison, this library is in one of Oklahoma City’s historically African-American neighborhoods yet serves a diverse group of residents. Customers rely on the library to find basic information about voting, taxes, tutoring, government assistance, and a variety of other fundamental needs. In addition, the library serves a dynamic population of motivated customers ranging from school-age children to young adults and elders in the community. The Library serves as an essential hub for services, research, programs and events linking members of the larger community to one another.
Book drop location: To the right of entrance.
Public transit:
- EMBARK bus routes 002 (click here for route map) and 022 (click here for route map)
- Closest bus stop: N Martin Luther King Ave @ NE 23rd St (2-minute walk to library from stop)
Services
- Public use computers with 60-minute internet access and printing capabilities
- Mobile and offsite printing
- Free Wi-Fi
- Color copy machine with free outbound faxing (to U.S. numbers only) and scanning capability
- Chromebooks with web cams available on a first-come, first-served basis for in-library use only
- Self-serve holds shelf and a self-check machine
- Catalog computers dedicated to accessing the library's collection
- Library staff who can provide assistance locating information, using print and electronic sources, and provide readers' advisory
- Place and pick up interlibrary loan requests
- Tours and instruction in the use of library resources (by appointment)
- Experience Passes - Free admission to local museums. For more information, click here
Technology
Collection
- Meeting rooms - Cost (reservations required)
- Black History Collection
Spaces
Special Collections
Hours of Operation
Please check the top of this page for notices impacting our hours of operation or services offered.
Monday - Thursday: 9am - 9pm
Friday: 9am - 6pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 1 - 6pm
Curbside Hours
Mon-Friday: 9am - 6pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 1pm - 6pm
Upcoming Events
Come join Ralph Ellison Library for an educational scavenger hunt about OKC metro landmarks! Find all the pictures of the landmarks hidden around the library and you can earn a prize!
*Prizes available while supplies last.
Disclaimer(s)
It is encouraged that an adult supervise children while using this Metropolitan Library System Take & Make Kit.
Create colorful yarn coasters for your house or as a gift for someone special! Ralph Ellison Library will provide the yarn, loom, and instructions. Let your creativity flow while you enjoy this calming craft in the comfort of your own home!
Join us for an exciting exploration of Philippine weaving in a multitude of forms. Learn the significance of weaving to the indigenous cultures of the islands.
Disclaimer(s)
Be Advised: This program may be photographed and/or videotaped for publicity purposes.
By Attending, you consent: To the use of your voice and likeness in future publicity uses that contain content from this event. If you do not wish to be on camera, please let us know.
For more information visit our Photography & Video Disclaimer
Children ages 1-18 are invited to enjoy a meal from 12-1:30 p.m. at Ralph Ellison Library.
Meals are provided by Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma's Summer Feeding Program.
Disclaimer(s)
We cannot guarantee that food served at this program has not come into contact with tree nuts, soy, or other allergens. Accordingly, the Library will not be liable for such harm to any individual resulting from such allergens.
Join other video game lovers for a fun-filled program full of gaming, group challenges, and other activities. Playing video games with others helps to build skills such as: problem solving, teamwork, spatial reasoning, and communication. Gaming is also a great way to reduce stress and boost your mood! Come meet new friends, explore other worlds, and learn about the many resources your neighborhood library has to offer!
This 6 week interactive class works with parents to build a toolbox full of education, tips, tricks, and strategies for supportive parenting.
Topics Include:
Join other LEGO fans to engineer some fun! Imagine, create, play, and learn as we build with LEGOs.
Blast off with your imagination at the Ralph Ellison library Lego Club. Lego dreamers of all ages and experience levels welcome.
Disclaimer(s)
The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.
Warning: Kit contains small parts that could represent a choking hazard. It is not intended for children under 3. It is encouraged that an adult supervise children while using this Metropolitan Library System Take & Make Bag.
It is encouraged that an adult supervise children while using this Metropolitan Library System Take & Make Kit.
Participants will learn how to "paint" with wool using needle felting. Follow along with Darci Lenker from Oklahoma Contemporary for step-by-step instructions!