OKLAHOMA CITY (Free Press) — Friday, kids, parents, grandparents and long-term fans of the Belle Isle Library branch of the Metropolitan Library System (MLS) gathered to celebrate the opening and get a first look at the significant upgrades and architectural expansion.
Leaders in the MLS spoke about the significance of the improved branch at N.W. Expressway and N. Villa Ave on the near northwest of Oklahoma City.
Mayor David Holt referenced his own use of the library when he was a kid and was visibly eager to see it open.
Ward 2 City Councilor James Cooper, normally a commuting cyclist, braved the strong north wind to ride from his home in The Paseo all the way to the location before speaking about the significance of the location.
Click/tap on any of these photos to bring up full-size versions in a slider. (credit: BRETT DICKERSON/Okla City Free Press)
Brett is the founder and former Editor in Chief of Oklahoma City Free Press. His leadership created and developed this company into a vital and valuable source of news and community in OKC.
Dickerson retired in 2026. He continues to contribute support and photography to the efforts of the publication.
